Jim Leyland hinted at some "drastic" changes for the upcoming series versus the Red Sox and the first change has already happened. Jacque Jones has been designated for assignment and Matt Joyce has been recalled from Toledo. Jones had been batting .165 with four extra base hits in 79 at bats this year. They have ten days to either trade or release Jones with a trade being highly unlikely.
Joyce is a 23 year old left-handed hitter who was off to a good start for the Mud Hens this year - .299/.367/.536 in 97 at bats. He batted .257/.333/.454 for AA Erie last year but finished strong after a very slow start. He was also named the best defensive outfielder in the Eastern League by Baseball America and has an excellent arm which is one of the things that Jones lacked.
This move was a bit of a surprise but not a drastic move. It's good to see that they aren't going to stick with a veteran who isn't producing or showing any signs that he will. Why did they not bring up Clete Thomas who fared well earlier in the year ? It's because he was off to a slow start for Toledo - .213 in 47 at bats.
I would imagine that Joyce will get a chance to start right away and perhaps platoon with Marcus Thames or Ryan Raburn. We may see him tonight along with other changes.
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