Some sterling defense in left field, along with left-handed pop from his bat would benefit the team greatly.

Too bad he is the very definition of "average major leaguer."

While he may be an average major leaguer, the shape of his performance is important. He's an above-average defender and capable of handling CF, and he crushes opposite-handed pitching. However, his portside compatriots eat him alive at the plate.

In other words, he's far better suited to be a platoon OF and defensive replacement, which maximizes his strengths and hides his weakness. He and Thames should provide a fine performance in LF, and he can slide into CF on the days when someone needs a day off or gets rotated into the DH slot.

Jacque Jones is valuable if used correctly. As long as the Tigers do so, he'll be a useful addition.