DETROIT -- John Hicks said before Wednesday's game that he has no delusions of being Miguel Cabrera, "one of the best players to ever play the game."
But his best efforts at impersonating him have so far been impressive.
Hicks had three hits Wednesday in his first start at first base since Cabrera suffered a season-ending injury, helping to lead the Tigers to a 5-2 win over the Minnesota Twins.
A catcher by trade, the 28-year-old native of Goochland, Va., was claimed on waivers from the Twins two-and-half years ago. He's now likely to get most of the playing time at first base for the rest of the season -- or as long as he keeps hitting.