Talking about Willis

Can Dontrelle Willis be the Cliff Lee of 2009? That's what the Detroit Free Press is asking, and it's not implausible.

The winter meetings begin anew tomorrow in Las Vegas, and many in the industry — Dombrowski included — believe this will be a very active week. The Tigers have a limited budget, and they need a catcher, shortstop and closer.

They could trade an expensive veteran to clear payroll, but how realistic would that be? Willis, for example, is due to earn $10 million next year and $12 million in 2010. Is any general manager going to look at Willis’ performance this year — 0-2, 9.38 ERA, too many outings were he could not throw strikes — and ask Dombrowski to send him the bill?

Well, not the entire bill. That’s an important distinction.

The odds do not favor a Willis trade this off-season, but the possibility will linger for a simple reason: Every team in baseball needs pitching.

But, then again, why not? Why wouldn't a contending team take Willis on as a 5th starter? As Detroit to pay a percentage of the bill, and if he rebounds anywhere near his former self, you get a steal. If he doesn't work out, he's just a 5th starter. A midseason trade can bring you another arm, or a minor league call-up might pan out. Willis could become an attractive name to many at this week's winter meetings.