Could Tigers call up minor-league home run king Hessman?
The minor-league home run king could be coming to a major-league park near you.
The Detroit Tigers are reportedly considering calling up Mike Hessman, who broke the minor-league home run record earlier this month.
While it's still a bit early for the Tigers to be discussing September call-ups, Hessman seems to be high on the list for consideration.
"I'm sure he will be a name that is discussed," Ausmus told reporters Sunday morning.
Hessman, 37, has a career total of 14 major-league home runs over his 19-year professional career.
From MLB.com:
"If Hessman decides to retire at season's end -- it has been widely speculated he will have a career in coaching in the Tigers' system whenever his playing days are done -- one last big league call would be a nice cap to a 19-year professional career. The logistics, however, could be complicated.
"Hessman is not on the 40-man roster; he'd have to be added to be eligible to join the team. The Tigers have an open spot on their 40-man roster, but left-hander Kyle Lobstein is expected to fill that whenever he comes off the 60-day disabled list. Barring any August trades or releases, the Tigers would have to designate somebody to open a spot, which probably wouldn't happen."
While the Tigers aren't currently in the Wild Card race, things can change over the next few weeks, making a promotion less likely for Hessman.
(h/t MLB.com)
