Should Detroit Have Drafted A Left-Handed Pitcher Instead Of RHP Justin Turner?
LAWRENCE: General Manager Dave Dombrowski selected Missouri high school right-hander Jacob Turner with the ninth-overall pick. The Tigers’ recent draft philosophy states to snag high-ceiling power arms in the early rounds. This injection of flamethrowers into the organization has effectively transformed the look of the staff. But the lack of quality lefties creates a diversification issue. Detroit began 2009 with an all right-handed rotation. Since 2002, Andrew Miller has been the only left-handed pitcher selected by Detroit within the first three rounds. Miller’s greatest value remains what he reeled in (Miguel Cabrera) and the need for southpaws is more pressing than ever, especially if Dontrelle Willis and Bobby Seay continue to fade. With such a high draft slot, the Tigers should have passed on Turner to pick one of the four lefty pitchers taken in Round One. DOMINICK: Jacob Turner fits the mold of Detroit Tiger pitchers. At 6-foot-5, 210 pounds, his stature and high velocity resem
