2012 MLB Free Agents: Guillen, Ordonez Plan to Play
By Editorial Staff
Detroit Tigers’ beat writer Jason Beck spoke with free agent Carlos Guillen this weekend. Guillen told Beck that not only is he planning on playing in 2012, but it looks like his former teammate Magglio Ordonez is as well. After speaking with Ordonez this offseason, Guillen is confident that the veteran will attempt to return for his 16th Major League season.
Ordonez had his 2011 season come to an abrupt end during the playoffs, as the 37-year-old was diagnosed with a broken right ankle during the American League Championship Series. After experiencing pain in his ankle, the same one he broke in 2010, Ordonez was examined and the break was revealed.
Having suffered his second significant ankle injury in as many seasons, many began to question if Ordonez would forgo a return and instead elect retirement. The outfielder will be turning 38 before the 2012 season, and has witnessed his offensive numbers and playing time take a dive over the past several years.
But, after the Tigers were eliminated from postseason play, several people around the club said that Ordonez was prepared to undergo rehab on his ankle in an attempt to get ready for the 2012 season. Guillen’s statements coincide with these early reports, as it appears Ordonez will at least take a shot at returning next spring.
The six-time All-Star has only played in 176 over the past two seasons and finished 2011 with an OPS of only .634. Even if Ordonez is able to get healthy enough to play next year, it’s TBD what type of deal or role a club will be willing to offer him this offseason.
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You can check out all of the available free agents by position below.