The Marlins and Tigers have made the first blockbuster splash of the Winter Meetings. Florida and Detroit have reached a preliminary agreement that will send star third baseman Miguel Cabrera and left-hander Dontrelle Willis to the Tigers for a package of young players headlined by outfielder Cameron Maybin and left-hander Andrew Miller, according to major-league sources. Detroit will also send catcher Mike Rabelo and three prospects to the Marlins as part of the deal. Class AAA right-hander Dallas Trahern was mentioned Tuesday morning as one possible player to be included, according to sources.
The deal immediately raises questions about the future of current Tigers third baseman Brandon Inge. Inge is set to make $6.3 million this season, $6.3 million in 2009 and $6.6 million in 2010. The acquisition of Cabrera and Willis will add close to $20 million to the Tigers’ payroll.