LAKELAND, Fla. (AP) -Brandon Inge won’t be catching for the Detroit Tigers anymore.
Tigers manager Jim Leyland made that clear Monday, a day after used the Detroit’s former starting third baseman behind the plate.
Inge began his career as catcher, but after being used there Sunday he made comments to the media he was not happy with that role. He wants to play third base full time, but Detroit traded for Miguel Cabrera in the offseason, bumping Inge to a utility role.
Inge has asked to be traded.
“Brandon Inge does not want to be a catcher,” Leyland said. “Will he do it for us? Yes, but he does not want to be a catcher.
“I’m not going to force somebody to catch. He’s doing all the right things, saying all the right things. He’s a professional. He’s one of my favorites. I want him to play third base somewhere everyday. Is that going to happen? I have no clue.”
Tigers backup catcher Vance Wilson is out until at least early May with an arm injury.
Inge didn’t play against Tampa Bay in a 10-9 loss to the Rays on Monday, but Leyland said Inge would play center field the next time he plays.
Inge batted .236 with 14 homers and 71 RBIs for the Tigers last season. The Los Angeles Dodgers are reportedly interested in making a deal for Inge.
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