He has become the Tigers' top prospect. Smith and catching instructor Lance Parrish compare him with Ausmus. Many signs point to his becoming the everyday catcher, beginning with Opening Day next Tuesday. This is a big blow to an offense that at full strength would have been challenged to keep up with the many powerhouse lineups in the American League. We went out to get a guy with a very good on-base percentage, who hits with men on base, to provide a big part of our offense.
Injuries are part of the game.
Smith said he wasn't inclined to trade for a hitter to replace Meluskey in the middle of the lineup. He pointed out there's no opening in the lineup besides catcher. For now, Javier Cardona or Carlos Mendez looms as Inge's backup. Smith said he wasn't eager to pursue a veteran catcher, even after he determined that Meluskey was done for the season. When Smith explained why he wouldn't step up the pursuit of a veteran, he seemed to endorse Inge.