Impact Analysis: Gary Sheffield, Detroit Tigers

June 3, 2008 @ 14:23:25

By Joe Book
Edited by Richard Garcia

In the midst of a disappointing start to a season with hefty expectations, the Detroit Tigers placed designated hitter Gary Sheffield (oblique) on the 15-day disabled list with a left oblique strain Tuesday, May 27. Sheffield left Detroit's game against the Los Angeles Angels Monday, May 26, after he felt discomfort while running to first base during a groundout.

Sheffield has been a focal point of the slow start by the Tigers, which finds them 24-33 as of games played through June 2. His .331 slugging percentage is worse than his .344 on-base mark, and the 39-year-old has contributed only 10 extra-base hits, including just three home runs, in 163 plate appearances. In his first season with the Tigers last season, he posted a .303-21-58 line with 12 stolen bases in the first half of last year before nagging injuries reduced him to a .203-4-17 clip in the second half.

Sheffield's roster spot was taken by Jeff Larish, whose contract was purchased from Triple-A Toledo. His 16 home runs ranked third in the International League, while his 43 RBIs ranked second. His addition to the team adds balance to a lineup that is predominantly made up of right-handed hitters.

Injuries

With one of the most violent and intimidating swings in the game, Sheffield seems to be a perpetual candidate for shoulder and midsection injuries, both of which he has suffered this season. Various injuries have introduced him to the disabled list 12 times during his illustrious career, and he has played more than 150 games in a season in only five of his 20 big-league campaigns.

While team doctors offer no timetable for Sheffield's return, his latest injury should only need 10 days to heal with simple rest. However, he is required to serve all 15 days on the DL, and the team could use that time to heal all of Sheffield's ailments. Fantasy owners should keep in mind that an oblique injury can be easily aggravated by a player with the herky-jerky motions he exhibits.

Sheffield had been battling shoulder issues all season following the surgery he had to repair a right labrum tear last fall. He had also been enduring a tendon tear in his right ring finger that forced him to wear a splint in games. Needless to say, the extra time off the diamond should stealthily help Sheffield get back on the field, where he was hitting .360 with one home run and four RBIs in his six games before going on the DL.

Possible replacements

San Francisco Giants outfielder Randy Winn is hitting .291 with five home runs, 20 RBIs and 10 stolen bases for the season. He remains a dominant force against left-handed pitching - he is hitting .333 and has hit four of his five home runs. In his last five games, Winn is hitting .333 with three home runs. He is a viable option for leagues where Sheffield has outfield eligibility.

Boston Red Sox outfielder Coco Crisp is expected to see more playing time with designated hitter David Ortiz (wrist) on the DL. Crisp had been sharing time with outfielder Jacoby Ellsbury. Crisp, who is hitting .250 with two home runs, hasn't fared well in his role this season. However, his increase in playing time should help fantasy owners in need of production in the stolen base department.

Fantasy outlook

Sheffield has traditionally posted solid numbers after the All-Star break, so he might be worth holding in a fantasy DL spot or bench position until he's healthy enough to help your team. Some in shallow leagues have dropped him, though, and it's understandable; considering Sheffield's poor production and injury concerns, there's no telling when he can contribute, especially if you're in need.

With utility player Brandon Inge (oblique) and first baseman Larish expected to help pick up the slack in his absence, it is likely Sheffield will step back into an everyday job. His timing could endure an adjustment period, so inserting Sheffield into a fantasy starting lineup immediately upon his return is a gamble.

Despite his poor performance, Sheffield was leading the Tigers in walks (25) and stolen bases (three) at the time of his injury. If the Detroit offense can live up to its potential, Sheffield could find himself back in the middle of the lineup for a potent Tigers offense. The American League Central hasn't been particularly impressive to start the year, and Detroit hasn't hit its stride yet.

All told, the subject is still an injury-prone enigmatic fireball who can see his 40th birthday approaching rapidly and who is trying to gain traction on the slippery slope of a career in decline. Sheffield was struggling through a shoulder injury this season, and the rest could be exactly what he needs to be a second-half surprise, though. If the team rushes him back, he could suffer through a similar post-break experience as the 2007 campaign (.203-4-17 in only 53 games). He's a good buy-low candidate, but only for owners with some patience and a bottle of antacid. Sheffield's likely Hall of Fame career is winding down; it might be best to let him take some other fantasy owner for his final ride.

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Joe Book
Joe has been with KFFL since 2007.

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