The Phillies were unable to find a spot on their active roster for old friend Bobby Abreu and released him so that he could pursue other opportunities. Worried about Abreu's defense, they had trouble justifying a roster spot for Abreu. Abreu may have found a new home.
According to Ollie Connolly of MLB Advanced Media, Bobby Abreu could end up with the Detroit Tigers:
A Pittsburgh #Pirates personnel executive 'strongly expects' Bobby Abreu to sign with the #Tigers
— Ollie Connolly (@OllieUKEZ) March 29, 2014
Abreu likely would be an outfielder with the Tigers.
Detroit has Victor Martinez firmly implanted as the team's designated hitter. However, with Rajai Davis in the starting lineup in the outfield, the Tigers may wish to have a left-handed option available on the bench to pinch-hit for Davis or to make an occasional start in the outfield.
Abreu hit .244 for the Phillies, with a .404 on base percentage in 17 games this Spring.
