Cabrera’s Alcohol Arrest

Support of Cabrera

Tigers manager Jim Leyland seems to be standing by his talented-but-troubled first baseman. Less than 48 hours after the arrest, he told reporters that he expects great things from Cabrera this season, adding, “I know for a fact Miguel Cabrera is in the best shape of his life. He's stronger than he's ever been, and he's quicker than he's ever been … I think Miguel Cabrera is probably going to have the biggest year of his life,” Leyland told the Detroit Free Press.

When asked how Cabrera’s teammates were reacting to this latest trouble, Leyland downplayed the event completely. "It's not going to affect the team at all,” he said. “Trust me. That's all reading material, everybody getting all upset and getting real dramatic." 

While Cabrera has never labeled himself an alcoholic, it’s not uncommon for those in the spotlight to have the people around them downplay their problems and go into protection mode when careers are at stake. The Tigers certainly have financial reasons for wanting Cabrera to be okay -- $106 million reasons. That’s the base salary he’s currently guaranteed through 2015.

The threat to Cabrera’s career aside, his health and personal life are also at stake if he doesn't deal with his drinking problem. It’s still unclear what steps will be taken following his arrest and whether or not Cabrera will enter a residential substance abuse program or report for spring training with the rest of his team. Those decisions could very well affect his future long after he hangs up his uniform.

Alcohol Treatment

If you or someone you love is in need of alcohol treatment or co-occurring disorder treamtent, call The Canyon at our toll-free. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.