Tigers OF Magglio Ordonez returned to the lineup Monday night after spending time on the DL nursing a sore ankle and playing in Triple-A Toledo 
during a rehab stint. Prior to hitting the DL Magglio was performing poorly at the plate and has always caught criticism for his play in the outfield. During his absence Brennan Boesch, Casper Wells and Andy Dirks have filled in nicely by provided more defense in the outfield and produced very well at the plate.
So when Magglio returned questions were raised on whether or not one of these three players should give up their spot just so Magglio can be inserted back into the lineup.
However, what happens if Magglio comes back and shows he can be healthy while still hitting the ball for a high average?
Jon Paul Morosi of FOXSports.com writes that the Tigers may want to explore the option of using Ordonez as trade bait. Here is what he has to say…
The Tigers have the best starting rotation ERA in the American League Central. At spacious Comerica Park, it will take a strong outfield defense to keep it that way. The likes of Andy Dirks and Casper Wells are much more adept than Ordonez in the corner outfield spots. So, Ordonez will need to produce runs in order for manager Jim Leyland to justify having his glove in the outfield.
Ordonez won’t be easy to trade. As a 10-and-5 player, he has full no-trade rights. He is earning $10 million this season on a one-year deal, so the Tigers would probably need to swap one burdensome contract for another. But a number of contenders – including the Angels, Mariners and Yankees – are getting below-average production from their DHs.
My problem with trading Ordonez and relying totally on unproven players is dangerous territory. As much as Tigers fans want to believe that Boesch, Wells and Dirks can continue to perform the way have so far this season, I warn you simply cannot all your eggs in the basket of unproven players. Last season we saw what could happen when you rely on unproven players. Brennan Boesch hit extremely well during the first half the season but did a complete 180 the second half.
Lastly, if the Tigers were to trade Magglio, the return would be something not worth the effort.
Source: FOXSports.com
