Cabrera Socks for Tigers; Raul Ibanez Expected to Bounce Back in 2011

Players of the Day for Friday, March 11, 2011

American League

Miguel Cabrera

Roundly criticized for his drinking and off-field antics, Miguel Cabrera will likely get down to the business of baseball shortly and refrain from entertaining thoughts of becoming the summer version of Charlie Sheen.

The Detroit first baseman took some strides in the right direction with his first home run of the season in a 7-4 win over St. Louis. Cabrera also added a fine double in three at-bats, scoring three times for the Tigers and driving in a pair of runs.

Following a sensational season with 38 home runs and 126 RBI, Cabrera, in the prime of his career (he'll turn 28 on April 18), should be a stalwart in the middle of Detroit's lineup and help the Tigers in their quest for an AL Central title.

National League

Raul Ibanez

Almost a forgotten man in the midst of Philadelphia's power-laden lineup, Raul Ibanez singled, doubled and cracked his first Springtime home run as the Phillies took down Baltimore, 13-6.

Ibanez went 3-for-3, drive in three runs and scored twice in the win, boosting his batting average to a respectable .321.

In 2010, Ibanez had an off year, delivering only 16 home runs and 83 RBI, though with Jayson Werth gone to the Nationals, he'll likely be hitting behind Ryan Howard, so he'll get more opportunities at choice pitches. The Phillies are counting on a solid year form Ibanez and more production, beyond the 83 RBI he sent in last season.