When Tiger designated hitter Victor Martinez injured his knee a little over two weeks ago, there was some speculation that he might be able to play baseball again by the end of the 2012 season. That isn't going to happen. After getting a second opinion from knee specialist Dr Richard Steadman, Martinez had microfracture surgery and repairs to his meniscus in his left knee and is awaiting a second surgery to repair his ACL.

The diagnosis is worse than previously thought, but Martinez should recover fully and be ready for Spring Training. In 2013. Of course, the Tigers didn't waste any time finding a big bat to fill the void that V-Mart's injury left in the Detroit lineup. Prince Fielder will bat behind Miguel Cabrera to form one of the best one-two punches in the game. Once Martinez is able to come back, the Tiger batting order will become tougher to pitch through.

By the way, pitchers and catchers report to Spring Training to start workouts on February 19th. Tiger exhibition games begin March 2nd in Florida. Regular season Opening Day is just over two months away. I know I'll be ready.

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