Tigers sign Thames to one-year deal

01/17/2008 4:56 PM ET
Tigers sign Thames to one-year deal
Veteran will likely compete for starting left-field job in '08
By Jason Beck / MLB.com

DETROIT -- The Tigers avoided arbitration with outfielder Marcus Thames, agreeing to terms on a one-year contract on Thursday worth $1,275,000.

Thames was eligible for arbitration for the first time after becoming a valuable piece of the roster as a platoon player and reserve over the past few years. He played in 86 games last season, compiling a .242 batting average with 18 home runs and 54 RBIs.

The power numbers were generally even with his track record. In four seasons with the Tigers, Thames has homered 61 times over 889 at-bats, an average of one home run for every 14.57 at-bats.

Thames, who will turn 31 years old in March, heads into this season expected to compete for playing time alongside Jacque Jones in left field, especially given his .310 average against left-handed pitchers last year. However, the Tigers' current roster glut could have some effect if Detroit keeps Brandon Inge as a utility player rather than trading him.

The signing leaves the Tigers with third baseman Miguel Cabrera and reliever Bobby Seay still eligible for arbitration. President/general manager Dave Dombrowski has said he would like to sign Cabrera to a long-term contract. Cabrera's stellar production in five big-league seasons, however, puts him in line for a lucrative deal.

Jason Beck is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.

GO THAMES

Glad to see it...What does this mean to Raburn??

He might have an extended stint at Toledo.

Good chance...all I know is that with Inge there is not room for everybody.

It's fun to zip down to Toledo for games now...I'm beginning to recognize all the "occasional" Tigers!

I like Thames; Glad he is back next season

he's a good man.