Angels Planning to Offer Tettleton a Contract
The Angels plan to offer free-agent Mickey Tettleton a contract within a few weeks.
The Angels hope to attract Tettleton, who played the last four seasons in Detroit, by making him their starting first baseman, utility outfielder and catcher. It’s a commitment the Tigers say they’re unable to make, with Cecil Fielder at first base.
“We recognize the threat of Mickey signing with someone,” Tiger General Manager Joe Klein said, “particularly with one of the lower payrolls.”
The Angels, whose $23.3-million payroll was the lowest in the American League last season, want Tettleton to bat fifth, protecting designated hitter Chili Davis. The Angels’ fifth-place hitters batted a league-low .262 last season with 21 homers and 73 runs batted in. In contrast, Tettleton has averaged 28 homers and 93 RBIs the last four years.
Tettleton, 34, had a cast removed Monday from his left heel. He underwent surgery Sept. 22 to remove a bone spur and growth, but Tiger orthopedist Terry Lock said Tettleton will easily be ready the start of spring training.
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