Eric Munson - Detroit Tigers

Detroit Tigers

Munson began his major league career with the Detroit Tigers, making his first appearances in three games during a September call-up in 2000. He also made September appearances in 2001 and 2002. During spring training prior to the 2003 season, Munson was asked to try the third base position, as the Tigers had previously acquired Carlos Peña and Dmitri Young, both of whom were slated to play first base or designated hitter. The club's regular third baseman, Dean Palmer, was dealing with numerous injuries and would not be available. Munson would go on to play in 91 games at third and commit 19 errors for a .920 fielding percentage, eventually losing playing time to utilityman Shane Halter. On June 26, 2004, he hit the longest home run in the history of Comerica Park off Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Brandon Villafuerte. The ball traveled an estimated 457 feet, striking the center field camera well at the concourse level. During the same year, Brandon Inge began to play third base, among other positions, and the Tigers chose to grant Munson free agency. He signed with the Minnesota Twins in early 2005, but was released during spring training. Munson soon thereafter signed with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays' top affiliate, the Durham Bulls, where he again played first base. Munson also appeared in 11 games for the Devil Rays.