For some reason Marcus Thames never gets any love. I’ve been calling this guy “my Tiger” for 2+ years now. Think about all the big hits he gets. Hell, Thames is averaging 1 home run every 15 at bats on his career, and they almost always seem to come in big spots (late in the game or when we’re behind). Despite this, he’s still stuck as a spot player getting about one start a week.
Think back to our playoff run in 2006. During the run, Marcus finally earned his place, playing in almost every game. He excelled in the playoffs that year, with numerous big hits against the Yankees and Athletics. Then, during the world series (without the DH), his playing time fell off dramatically. I’m not suggesting that the Tigers would have won had Marcus played more, but I think it helps illustrate my point.
It’s not just on Leyland. Ex manager Alan Trammell cut Thames prior to the 2005 season, giving the roster spot to Bobby Higginson instead (good move Tram). Even the Yankees gave up on this guy, cutting him shortly after he hit a home run in his very first career at bat against Randy Johnson.
Overcoming adversity is nothing new to Thames, he’s had to deal with incredible challenges since he was a kid.
Unfortunately, he can’t write himself into the lineup. Thames has been relegated to nothing more than a role player his entire career. Who/what could be keeping Marcus down? It’s almost as if he’s hit some sort of glass ceiling…
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