The entire Tigers organization was caught off guard when Miguel Cabrera was arrested for DUI late Wednesday night. The team had its first full-squad workout on Saturday, but Cabrera was a no-show, and according to general manager Dave Dombrowski, it could still be several days before Cabrera reports.
Miguel Cabrera To Be Evaluated By Doctor Before Reporting To Tigers Camp
Cabrera will first be examined by a doctor appointed by the MLBPA and commissioner’s office, and the doctor will recommend a course of treatment. The Tigers will then come up with a plan of action that may not be finalized until the middle of next week. It’s expected that Cabrera will report to camp in a handful of days, but there is some possibility that he’ll instead opt to enter a rehabilitation program.
Cabrera’s status for Opening Day doesn’t appear to be in jeopardy, as position players generally don’t need as much in the way of preparation as pitchers and it’s still only February, but it’s not a guarantee.
Ken Rosenthal writes that Cabrera will not be disciplined by MLB, as his DUI is considered an “off-duty misconduct,” but this isn’t an issue of discipline - this is an issue of treatment, and getting Cabrera all the help that he needs. Dombrowski says that Cabrera feels “down” and understands the severity of the situation, but while he’s been through treatment before, baseball is a difficult environment in which to get and stay sober. For Cabrera and the Tigers, this is going to take absolute commitment.
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