TIGERS GET ROMINE FOR ALVAREZ
The Detroit Tigers acquired infielder Andrew Romine from the Los Angeles Angels for pitcher Jose Alvarez.
What does it give the Detroit Tigers
With {P Jose Iglesias} likely out for all of 2014 due to stress fractures in both of his shins, the Tigers were in need of more shortstop help. Enter Romine, who is known more for his glove than his bat (like Iglesias) but isn't at the same Gold Glove level of defender as Iglesias. Still, he should provide some depth at the very least. Now strictly a left-handed batter, Romine may wind up in a platoon in Detroit if the club doesn't acquire another veteran shortstop.
What does it give the Los Angeles Angels
The Angels had little use for Romine, since their shortstop ({P Erick Aybar}) is healthy and locked in. Therefore, they moved him here in exchange for a young lefty with some upside in Alvarez. The 24-year-old Venezuelan could make the Angels immediately as a reliever, and he still has plenty of starting upside. It's a good deal for the Angels, who continue to seek more pitching depth throughout their organization.
Fantasy impact
If he plays every day, or as part of a platoon, in Detroit, Romine could see a major spike in fantasy value. However, the Tigers are expected to look at other alternatives to replace Iglesias. Even if he plays every day, Romine doesn't have a lot of potential with the stick. As for Alvarez, he has more keeper-league value than Romine. He's squarely on the radar, but may not make an impact this season.
