Thu, Jan 6, 2005 at 1:00pm

TIGERS GET BACKUP BACKSTOP

The Detroit Tigers acquired catcher Vance Wilson from the New York Mets for minor-league shortstop Anderson Hernandez.

What does it give the Detroit Tigers
The Tigers have landed a very solid backup catcher in Wilson. With Ivan Rodriguez being the No. 1 guy in Detroit, he won't get a whole lot of playing time, but if Pudge gets hurt, Wilson has proven he can handle a heavier workload by backing up Mike Piazza in New York. He's got a decent bat and good defensive skills. The move also frees up occasional catcher Brandon Inge to play more third base.

What does it give the New York Mets
After a rough 2003, Machado rebounded nicely in 2004 at High-A and Double-A. He's shown a solid bat at times, particularly last year, with good speed but little power. His best asset is his defensive prowess, which could eventually get him to the majors as a utility infielder.

Fantasy impact

Player focus

Detroit Tigers

Vance Wilson C