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Tigers decline option on Jhonny Peralta, work on deal

In a move that was anything but a surprise, the Tigers on Tuesday declined their 2011 option on infielder Jhonny Peralta, even as they continue to work on a multi-year deal with a player who likely will be Detroit's starting shortstop in 2011.

The Tigers could have picked up Peralta's $7.25 million option and secured him for next season, but not beyond, and at a price steeper than his current market value.

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They instead will try to sign Peralta to a more affordable package of at least two years.

Peralta came to the Tigers in July in a trade for minor-league pitcher Giovanni Soto. With the Tigers, he batted .253 in 57 games, with eight home runs, seven doubles and 38 RBIs.

The Tigers and Peralta were mutually pleased after the trade, and the Tigers were particularly comfortable with Peralta's ability to play third base or shortstop.

But his option year was destined to be an expensive salary, even for a 28-year-old right-hand hitter with power and a deft fielding touch that helps compensate for his limited range.

"We remain optimistic that a deal can be worked out between Jhonny and the club," said Dave Dombrowski, the Tigers' president and general manager.

In eight seasons with the Indians and Tigers, Peralta has a .263 batting average, 111 home runs, 16 triples, 208 doubles and 494 RBIs.

Peralta is officially a free agent. The Tigers are free to sign him at any point following the wrap-up of the 2010 World Series.

by Lynn Henning from The Detroit News