Roster-palooza: Avila Heads North, One Decision Remains

In the latest episode of the podcast, Ian and I reviewed the looming roster decisions facing Jim Leyland and the Tigers. Today we have answers.

• With the trade of Nate Robertson to Florida, Dontrelle Willis and Jeremy Bonderman (or Jeremy Bonderman and Dontrelle Willis) the rotation appears set. But for how long?

• Alex Avila has made the big club and will backup Gerald Laird. As of this writing he’s hitting .361 this spring. Avila beat out Robinzon Diaz who was designated for assignment.

• Brad Thomas joins Fu-Te Ni as a lefty relief option.

• Jeff Larish got sent down to Triple-A but will hang around with the Tigers for the last few games.

All that’s left to decide is the 25th man. Will it be Don Kelly or Clete Thomas? They both bat from the left side, so you can cross that off the list of criteria.