Tigers’ Santiago offers quiet consistency: A fan’s take

With all of the hype surrounding players like Justin Verlander(notes), Miguel Cabrera(notes) and Alex Avila(notes), it's no surprise that some of the Detroit Tigers' more undervalued players fly under the national media radar. This season, wrought with injuries, personnel swaps and contract negotiations, one player, in particular has been a consistent centerpiece to a formerly sub-par middle infield.

With the doubt swirling around Carlos Guillen's(notes) day-to-day play at second base, Ramon Santiago(notes) has more than adequately filled the gap with consistent and improving play. In the last 10 games, Santiago has been quietly contributing to the Tigers' success with a .267 batting average, nine total runs accounted for and a lone home run, which, thankfully, came in the form of a 10th-inning, walk-off game-winner against the Royals on Aug. 30.

Defensively, his numbers are fantastic, including a solid 1.000 at second and third base for the season. For a man who remains a constant utility staple, despite making several cases for a starting position over the past few seasons, his consistency has shown, more times than not, to be an undeniable factor in the team's success.

As the Tigers continue to push toward a deep playoff run, questions still linger about the play and abilities of Brandon Inge and Carlos Guillen. Santiago makes a strong play for a place in the playoff starting lineup. Separating himself from he likes of Don Kelly(notes) and, for argument's sake, his predecessor Omar Infante(notes), Santiago has a versatile athletic capability and a firm balance of offensive and defensive play, which makes him a viable option for manager Jim Leyland to consider.

Santiago has been a mainstay for the Tigers' organization since 2008. In those four years, he has lofted a .266 average, higher than that of many players who have graced the field at Comerica Park, including starters. It's about time Ramon got his due respect. He has been a dedicated teammate, loves interacting with the fans, and, through his play, has shown he has the talent to help the Tigers reach the postseason once again.

Ramon Santiago, I salute you, your effort and ability.

The author, D. Benjamin Satkowiak, is a successful entrepreneur who continues a family legacy of Detroit sports fans. A published author, he has also tailored works on various sports, health and fitness topics.He currently serves as a Yahoo! Contributor Network "Featured Contributor" and beat writer for Detroit Tigers' baseball and Notre Dame football.


[Source: http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/news?slug=ycn-9051651]