Cubs News: Things to watch for in the Detroit Tigers series

Chicago Cubs: While he might not be the man who once ruled baseball, it is always exciting to face Miggy.

It is hard to believe Miguel Cabrera has been a Tiger for 13 years now. Cabrera is now 37 and unfortunately, on the downswing of his career. The future Hall of Famer is one of the very best players of our generation. His resume includes 11 All-Star games, two MVP awards, a Triple Crown, seven Silver Slugger awards, four batting titles and a World Series win in 2003 with the Marlins.

This year Cabrera is struggling, hitting .181/.275/.319 with four home runs and 13 RBI. The sun is setting on his career, and his struggles are attributed to old age and wear and tear on the body. He has played in 174 total games in 2018-2019 and has dealt with back, knee and ankle issues the past several years.

Keep in mind Cabrera is making a little over $11 million (adjusted salary for a 60-game season) and has three more years under team control with two more years after that being mutual options. He won’t be a UFA until 2026.

Despite his struggles, he is a guy you do not make to make a mistake. Old players who are past their prime seem to be able to do damage against Cubs pitching. He will be facing Alec Mills in game one. Regardless of how he is playing, watching Cabrera is special, knowing he has an obvious path to Cooperstown.

One question we are looking for an answer for as of now is when Jose Quintana will be used. David Ross said he might rejoin the team and be used out of the bullpen. That is one other thing to watch for potentially.