Placido Polanco

Placido Polanco is a second baseman for the Detroit Tigers. A native of the Dominican Republic, Polanco was originally drafted by the Chicago White Sox in the 49th round of the 1993 amateur draft, but he declined a contract. A year later, the St. Louis Cardinals drafted Polanco in the 19th round, and he signed with the team on June 9, 1994. He made his major league debut with the Cardinals on July 3, 1998. On July 29, 2002, Polanco was sent to the Philadelphia Phillies along with Bud Smith and Mike Timlin, in exchange for Scott Rolen, Douge Nickle, and cash. After a couple of seasons with the Phillies, Polanco was traded to the Tigers for Ugueth Urbina and Ramon Martinez. In 2007 Polanco made his first All-Star team.

Fast Facts

1. Full name: Plácido Enrique Polanco
2. Born: October 10, 1975
3. Birthplace: Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic
4. 2006 World Series with Detroit Tigers
5. Polanco is close friends with first baseman Albert Pujols
6. 2007 All-Star Starter
7. 2007 Silver Slugger Award winner

Strengths

Polanco is a versatile defensive player who can play all over the infield. At the plate, Polanco is a terrific contact-hitter who rarely strikes out.

Weaknesses

Not as effective at the plate against right-handed pitching.

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