Tigers' Danny Worth To Miss Rest Of Season

If the Detroit Tigers intended to audition Danny Worth for next year's starting shortstop job, those plans have now been put on hold. Worth will miss the remainder of the season due to a bruised left heel. The rookie infielder had already been on the disabled list since August 4 because of the heel injury.

Tigers manager Jim Leyland announced the decision before Thursday's game versus the Blue Jays. But the prognosis for a full recovery, and a chance to compete for a job next season, look fine.

From MLive.com:

He can be an excellent shortstop or second baseman," Leyland said. "It’s simple: if he hits he can be a regular and if he doesn’t he will be a utility infielder. And he can play third base -- anything you want him to.

"He’s stronger and a better-looking hitter than I remember. And he runs good."

Worth had two separate stints with the Tigers this season. He was first called up from Triple-A Toledo in mid-May, replacing the demoted Scott Sizemore. And after being sent back down to make room for Carlos Guillen, Worth was recalled in early June when shortstop Adam Everett was designated for assignment. 

In Worth's absence, Jhonny Peralta will likely get the majority of time at shortstop for the remainder of the season. And if any teams were interested in trading for Brandon Inge before the August 31 waiver trade deadline, the Tigers will probably prefer to keep him now. 

Worth's season ends with a .255/.295/.358 average, two home runs, and eight RBIs in 115 plate appearances (39 games).