(7/1/2009) The Pirates have released DH Craig Monroe.
Monroe designated for assignment
(6/20/2009) The Pirates designated OF Craig Monroe for assignment Friday and recalled OF Steve Pearce from Triple-A Indianapolis.
Monroe hits a three-run home run
(5/18/2009) Pirates OF Craig Monroe, who usually starts against left-handed pitchers, hit cleanup at Washington on Monday as the team faced rookie left-hander Ross Detwiler. Monroe went 1-for-5 with a three-run homer.
Monroe nets RBI, double Friday
(5/15/2009) Pirates OF Craig Monroe had two hits, including his second double, and one RBI in three at-bats during Friday's game against the Rockies. Monroe drove in his team's only run with a RBI single in the sixth. He also walked while raising his average from .216 to .250.
Monroe not getting many at-bats
(5/6/2009) Pirates OF Brandon Moss went 1-for-2 with two walks, a strikeout and a run scored in Tuesday's game against the Brewers. He is batting just .208 this season. Meanwhile, Craig Monroe has not started a game since April 27.
Monroe shows off power stroke
(4/18/2009)Craig Monroe hit a pair of three-run homers, lifting the Pittsburgh Pirates to a 10-0 victory over the Atlanta Braves on Saturday. Monroe, making his second start of the season, homered off Atlanta starter Jo-Jo Reyes (0-1) with two outs in the sixth inning. He again went deep off reliever Buddy Carlyle with two outs in the seventh.
Monroe gets hits 2009 hit
(4/15/2009) Pittsburgh DH Craig Monroe got his first hit of the 2009 season on Wednesday, going 1-for-4 from the plate with a strikeout. It was his first start after getting three pinch hit appearances earlier in the season.
Monroe hits eighth spring homer
(4/4/2009) Pirates DH Craig Monroe hit his eighth spring homer in Saturday's loss to the Twins.
Monroe makes Pirates' roster
(4/1/2009) Outfielder Craig Monroe, a non-roster player, was told he had made the roster, though the Pirates still must clear a 40-man spot for him.
Monroe dealing with some soreness
(3/15/2009) Pirates OF Craig Monroe, who hit three home runs on Thursday, iced his right shoulder after Saturday's game and again Sunday morning, but he said it is just some minor soreness. He went 0-for-3 with two strikeouts Sunday.
Monroe hitting bombs like crazy
(3/12/2009) Pirates DH Craig Monroe homered three times against his former team Thursday, powering the Pirates to a 6-4 victory over the Twins. Monroe hit solo shots in the second and third innings off Scott Baker. In the sixth, he hit a two-run homer off reliever Kevin Mulvey. "Some days, you just can't explain," Monroe said. "I'm working on a process, some things that I really feel will give me a chance to take some good swings. To go out today and see the process and the plan work, it's gratifying." Monroe leads the Pirates with six home runs. He's gone deep in three straight games. "We helped Craig Monroe make the (Pirates)," Twins manager Ron Gardenhire said. "I'm happy for him. He looks like he's really worked hard this winter, and he killed us today." Monroe's first homer off Baker came on a fastball, the second was on a curveball. "Bake's a good friend," Monroe said. "He didn't live that far from me in the offseason. You always feel bad when it's your buddy. At the same time, I'm pushing and working hard, trying to make this team. I'm trying to open up some eyes."
Monroe goes deep in the ninth
(3/11/2009)Craig Monroe homered in the ninth for Pittsburgh in what ended up being a 2-2 tie with the Blue Jays on Wednesday. Monroe's one-out homer to left-center tied it in the ninth against right-hander Robert Ray. It was his third homer of the spring season.
Monroe slugs second spring bomb
(3/8/2009) Pirates DH Craig Monroe hit his second homer of the spring in Sunday's win over the Astros. The blast was of the two-run variety.
Pirates give OF Monroe minor deal
(1/13/2009) Outfielder Craig Monroe and catcher Miguel Perez agreed Tuesday to minor league contracts with the Pirates. Perez spent last season with the Pirates' Double-A Altoona farm club, hitting .281 with two homers and 22 RBI in 57 games. The Pirates' payroll is staying in the $50 million range, and they haven't gone after any high-priced offensive talent during the winter. They are hoping to get a comeback season from a power hitter such as Monroe, who turns 32 next month, without having to make a substantial investment in him.
Monroe clears waivers, released
(8/9/2008)The Sports Xchange reports that Craig Monroe, designated for assignment a week ago, went unclaimed on waivers and was released by the Twins on Friday. The Twins must pay Monroe the $1 million or so remaining on his $3.8 million contract, which could be reduced by a pro-rated portion of the minimum salary if Monroe signs with another team this season.
Twins cut SP Hernandez and OF Monroe
(8/1/2008) The Minnesota Twins have promoted pitcher Francisco Liriano from Triple-A and cut pitcher Livan Hernandez and outfielder Craig Monroe. The Twins also selected the contract of first baseman/designated hitter Randy Ruiz from Rochester on Friday. Hernandez and Monroe were designated for release or assignment.
Monroe ends 0-for-13 skid
(7/20/2008) Twins OF Craig Monroe went 1-for-4 with an RBI in Saturday's win over the Rangers to break an 0-for-13 slide.
Monroe burns former team
(7/2/2008) Twins OF Craig Monroe is growing into his new role as a reserve. Monroe hit a three-run homer and just missed a second Tuesday to help the Minnesota Twins beat the Detroit Tigers 6-4.
Monroe blasts pinch-hit homer
(6/26/2008) Twins OF Craig Monroe hit his seventh homer of the year Wednesday when he smacked a pinch-hit dinger off Mike Adams in the eighth inning of a 9-3 win over the Padres.
Monroe ties it up with fifth homer
(5/29/2008)Craig Monroe's three-run homer with two outs in the ninth capped a five-run rally to tie the game at Kansas City Wednesday. Monroe, who pinch hit for Alexi Casilla, jumped on an inside fastball from Joel Peralta with a 3-2 count. "I hit it hard and it was a loud sound for me like at the plate; I could feel it," he said. "I don't think we ever quit. I went down and hit off the tee, so I was loose."
Monroe starts, Ks twice Sunday
(5/18/2008) Twins OF Craig Monroe started in center field for the second straight game Sunday against the Rockies as OF Carlos Gomez continues to nurse a wrist injury. Monroe was hitless in four at-bats Sunday with two strikeouts. He doesn't have a hit in the two starts and just one over his last 16 at-bats.
Monroe doubles season homer count
(5/12/2008) Twins OF Craig Monroe put together the third multihomer game of his career Sunday, connecting twice against the Red Sox to double his season count. He hit a three-run home run off Tim Wakefield in the second inning and a solo shot off Mike Timlin in the seventh. He finished 2-for-4.
Monroe torches former teammates
(5/4/2008) Twins OF Craig Monroe, starting in center in place of Carlos Gomez, hit a two-run homer off Justin Verlander in Saturday's 4-1 win over the Tigers. Monroe's second blast of the season came after Verlander walked Delmon Young on four pitches with no outs in the seventh.
Monroe hits first homer of season
(4/23/2008)Craig Monroe drove in three runs and hit a home run for the first time this season in the Twins' 5-4 victory against the Athletics on Tuesday night. Monroe's three RBI were a season best. Along with his solo home run in the seventh, he had an RBI double in the fifth and singled in a run in the second on a cool Bay Area night that featured rain for much of the latter part of the game. Monroe is 10-for-14 (.714) lifetime against A's pitcher Joe Blanton. "I have no clue," Blanton said of Monroe's numbers against him. "I know they're better now."
Monroe keeps RBI streak alive
(4/15/2008) Twins DH Craig Monroe had two hits, including a RBI single in the ninth inning off Todd Jones, in four at-bats Tuesday against the Tigers. Monroe has hit safely in the last three games (4-for-10) and has one RBI in each contest.
(4/1/2008)Craig Monroe made his Twins regular-season debut Monday against the Angels as the team's designated hitter. Monroe was hitless in three at-bats before giving way to Jason Kubel in the ninth inning. Monroe struck out Monday and left three runners on base.
Monroe returns with two-run single
(3/6/2008)Craig Monroe quickly got back into the swing. Out a week because of a strained calf, Monroe returned to the lineup Thursday and hit a two-run single in the first inning that sent the Minnesota Twins over the Baltimore Orioles 8-7. The Twins' newcomer played only his second game of the spring. The 31-year-old Monroe's single off Daniel Cabrera gave the Twins a 5-1 lead. "How about perseverance?" Monroe said. "I continued to work my tail off to get better, and I think something can be said for that."
Monroe not playing with hurt calf
(3/3/2008) Twins OF Craig Monroe hasn't been playing because of a strained muscle in his left calf, according to MLB.com. He won't play until later in the week. "We can take our time here," Gardenhire said. "We know what the guy can do. He's anxious. But he'll get plenty of swings to get ready."
Monroe tries to make Twins
(2/22/2008) The Twins don't have many other options behind Justin Morneau. "Well. Well, um. Uh, next question," manager Ron Gardenhire said when asked about Morneau's backup, only half-joking before naming Craig Monroe, Mike Lamb and Brian Buscher as candidates.
Monroe left out of outfield mix?
(1/27/2008) With the Twins determined to keep newly acquired OF Delmon Young in left field, Craig Monroe appears destined for a bench role or a platoon at DH.
Twins tender contract to Monroe
(12/12/2007) Outfielder Craig Monroe and the Twins agreed Tuesday to a $3.82 million, one-year contract, a cut of 20 percent from his $4,775,000 salary this year with the Chicago Cubs. Monroe, obtained by the Twins on Nov. 13 for a player to be named, probably will spell Michael Cuddyer and Delmon Young at the corner outfield positions. Monroe is a career .256 hitter over five-plus seasons, mostly with the Tigers.
Twins trade for OF Monroe
(11/13/2007) Outfielder Craig Monroe was acquired by the Twins from the Cubs on Tuesday for a player to be named later. Minnesota has been seeking outfield help, a need that may grow if free-agent center fielder Torii Hunter signs with another team.
Monroe gets rare start in CF
(9/6/2007) Manager Lou Piniella promised to add some speed to his lineup after the Cubs struggled for two consecutive games against the Dodgers to score runs. But his lineup Wednesday featured Ronny Cedeno at short and Craig Monroe in center, giving two of his fastest players, Ryan Theriot and Jacque Jones, the night off. He also started Pacific Coast League MVP Geovany Soto at catcher.
Cubs get nothing out of Monroe
(8/26/2007) Craig Monroe, acquired by Chicago from Detroit on Thursday, was making his first start for the Cubs on Saturday. He went 0-for-4 with a strikeout and left five men on base.
Cubs add RH OF bat in Monroe
(8/23/2007) Craig Monroe quickly found himself back in a pennant race Thursday when the Tigers traded the slumping outfielder and cash to the Cubs for a player to be named. Despite hitting only .222 before Detroit designated him for assignment last Friday, Monroe was productive against left-handed pitching. That's how Cubs manager Lou Piniella plans to use him. "I think it gives us a good balance," Cubs GM Jim Hendry said. "It was just one of those situations where you couldn't pass up a guy who has already been there and helped lead a club to the postseason. We've had our ups and downs against lefties. It gives Lou some options here that we didn't have before by just adding one good batter against left-handed pitching."
Tigers cut OF Monore
(8/17/2007) The Detroit Tigers designated slumping outfielder Craig Monroe for assignment Friday, a season after he helped them make a surprising run to the World Series. The Tigers promoted 20-year-old outfielder Cameron Maybin, one of the top prospects in the minors, from Double-A Erie. They also recalled infielder Ramon Santiago from Triple-A Toledo and optioned infielder Omar Infante to their top minor league team.
Craig Monroe still under weather
(8/17/2007) LF Craig Monroe and 2B Placido Polanco were unable to play in Thursday's game at N.Y. Yankees due to the flu bug that has been circulating through the Tigers clubhouse. Marcus Thames got another start in left and was 1-for-5 with a run scored, while youngster Ryan Raburn replaced Polanco and was 1-for-4 with a double (7), run scored and two strikeouts.
Monroe still plagued by flu
(8/15/2007) The cold and flu season has caught up to the Detroit Tigers at the worst time possible. All-Stars Ivan Rodriguez and Placido Polanco and outfielder Craig Monroe are all sick and were not in the lineup for Wednesday's second AL Central showdown game with the Cleveland Indians. Closer Todd Jones was not feeling well and neither was Justin Verlander, who is scheduled to start Thursday in New York against the Yankees. "How's everybody feeling today?" manager Jim Leyland said as he walked into the Tigers' clubhouse about three hours before the scheduled first pitch. "Anybody else sick?"
LF Monroe under the weather
(8/14/2007) Second baseman Placido Polanco and outfielder Craig Monroe were sick with the flu and scratched from the Detroit Tigers' series-opener against the Cleveland Indians on Tuesday night. Ryan Raburn started at second while Marcus Thames took Monroe's spot in the left field. Curtis Granderson, who wasn't in manager Jim Leyland's original lineup, played center field and batted leadoff. Carlos Guillen, originally in the lineup at shortstop, was moved to first base. Both Polanco and Monroe came to the Jacobs Field, but were not feeling well and told Leyland. "They're sick," Leyland said. "When they'll be ready to play, I don't know. We make to make some adjustments. It's part of the game. That's the way it goes."
Monroe starts Thursday
(8/10/2007)The Sports Xchange notes: LF Craig Monroe started against Tampa Bay Thursday and collected only an infield single, which could mean he won't start Friday night. "We're trying to get him going," manager Jim Leyland said. "We need him to get going." But the return of OF/1B Marcus Thames and the emergence of OF Ryan Raburn could cut into his playing time. "I'm going to play the guy who's doing the job. It's that simple," Leyland said. "There's no secret to it. Whoever's doing the job is playing. No tricks to that. That's the way it's been since Day 1 in baseball."
Monroe's at-bats threatened again
(7/30/2007)The Sports Xchange notes: UT Ryan Raburn might be getting a look as the Tigers' left fielder for the next week or so. Raburn got a start in left Sunday as manager Jim Leyland noted LF Craig Monroe has been hitting under .200 for some two months now (20-for-122 since early June).
Monroe showing some pop
(7/22/2007) Craig Monroe hit a home run for the second consecutive game Sunday vs. Kansas City.
Monroe returns with four RBI
(7/21/2007) Tigers OF Craig Monroe (back) returned to the team's starting lineup Saturday against the Royals. He went 2-for-5 with one run, one double, one homer and four RBI.
Monroe might play Saturday
(7/21/2007)The Sports Xchange notes: LF Craig Monroe was available for pinch-hitting Friday night and said his back was well enough to where he could play against Kansas City Saturday.
Monroe not active Friday
(7/20/2007) Tigers OF Craig Monroe (back) sat out Friday's game against the Royals.
Monroe sits with bad back
(7/20/2007)The Sports Xchange notes: LF Craig Monroe was held out of action against Minnesota Thursday due to muscle spasms in his back.
Monroe hopes to shake slump
(7/6/2007)The Sports Xchange notes: LF Craig Monroe hopes a bloop single to right against Cleveland Thursday will help end his slump. Monroe sat out Wednesday night's game because he's been gripped by a slump for a month now. But he started Thursday and draped a single into short right field.
Monroe returns to lineup
(6/28/2007) Tigers OF Craig Monroe was back in the lineup Thursday against the Rangers, a day after being scratched because of soreness in his left knee. He was hitless in four at-bats.
Monroe dealing with knee soreness
(6/27/2007) Craig Monroe, the Tigers' regular left fielder, was scratched from Wednesday's lineup because of soreness in his left knee. The game was eventually rained out. Monroe, who said he came to the park expecting to play Wednesday, had the knee X-rayed after Tuesday's 9-6 loss to Texas.
Monroe likely to come off bench
(6/15/2007) Craig Monroe will probably be one of the first of the Detroit outfielders to take a seat as the Tigers start a nine-game visit to National League cities Friday at Philadelphia, according to The Sports Xchange.
(6/14/2007) Craig Monroe struck out five times Thursday, matching a major league record for a nine-inning game.
Monroe could play CF
(6/12/2007)The Sports Xchange reports LF Craig Monroe, who will play some center field during Detroit's nine-game swing to National League cities next week, might be heating up with the summer weather.
Monroe ends hitless streak
(6/10/2007) Tigers OF Craig Monroe went 3-for-5 with one run and one RBI during Sunday's game against the Mets. Monroe entered the game hitless in his last 16 at-bats.
Monroe mired in slump
(6/9/2007) Tigers OF Craig Monroe went 0-for-4 during Saturday's game against the Mets to extend his hitless streak to 16 at-bats.
Monroe hits 100th career homer
(6/1/2007) Craig Monroe was 1-for-4 in Thursday's game at Cleveland, connecting for a solo home run, the 100th of his career.
Monroe has a three-hit night
(5/30/2007) LF Craig Monroe, 2B Placido Polanco and C Ivan Rodriguez each had three-hit nights in Tuesday's 14-2 offensive explosion at Tampa Bay. Monroe and Rodriguez also had a double each, while Polanco drove in three runs.
Monroe hits second Sunday
(5/28/2007) LF Craig Monroe batted second against the Indians Sunday, a spot he frequently occupied last season when 2B Placido Polanco was out with a shoulder injury in August and September last season.
Monroe given a day off
(5/25/2007) Craig Monroe was given a rest Thursday vs. the Angels so he would be ready for the weekend series with Cleveland.
Monroe having solid May
(5/18/2007) Craig Monroe is batting .327 with four homers and 12 RBI in the month of May.
Sheffield helping Monroe
(5/4/2007) Tigers LF Craig Monroe says he's feeding off DH Gary Sheffield as he tries to end his early-season slump. Monroe doubled Friday night to end an 0-for-16 stretch and wound up going 7-for-22 with two home runs on Detroit's recent homestand. His average is up to .200 after dipping to .162 a week ago. "Monroe is a lot like me," Sheffield said. "We get in the way of our own talent. I don't think he's tapped into how good he really is. He just needs to trust his ability. "But I see it in his eyes. He's a determined young man. Even when he was struggling, he had that fight in him."
Monroe ready to heat up
(5/3/2007) Tigers LF Craig Monroe says he's just trying to get his head in a good place when he bats. He wants to get his bat in a good place, too. Monroe touched Baltimore for two home runs in the last two games Wednesday, hitting a long ball to left that gave Detroit a 3-2 victory. He has typically started slow for the Tigers but heated up with the weather and finished strong the last two months. Monroe struggled early this year, striking out too frequently, but extra hitting work seems to be making a difference.
Monroe doubles Friday, 0-fer Saturday
(4/28/2007) LF Craig Monroe broke an 0-for-16 slump with a double in the second inning Friday against Minnesota and looks like he might be coming alive at the plate.
Monroe pinch hits Monday
(4/23/2007) LF Craig Monroe was given a day off in hopes it would help him shake his slump Sunday, although he did wind up pinch-hitting in the bottom of the 12th.
Monroe shakes off the flu
(4/17/2007) Craig Monroe (flu) was able to play in Monday's game at Kansas City. He was hitless in three at-bats with a walk and a strikeout in the win.
Monroe leads AL with 15 Ks
(4/16/2007) Detroit's Craig Monroe tops the American League with 15 strikeouts. Right behind him at 14 are three Royals -- 3B Alex Gordon, 1B Ryan Shealy and RF Mark Teahen.
Monroe a late scratch Sunday
(4/15/2007) Detroit outfielder Craig Monroe was a late scratch Sunday at Toronto because of flu-like symptoms. He is considered day to day.
Monroe comes through in clutch
(4/12/2007) Tigers manager Jim Leyland said OF Craig Monroe, who hit a game-winning grand slam to beat Baltimore on Wednesday, has become a player who relishes hitting in the clutch. "He grew up a lot last year," Leyland said of the 30-year-old Monroe. "He went from a guy who wasn't sure of himself to a guy who wanted to be up there."
Monroe slams Baltimore
(4/12/2007) Craig Monroe's first homer of the season was his third hit of the game and third career grand slam Wednesday at Baltimore. "I knew I had hit it good. I was just hoping it would get a couple runs in," Monroe said. "I knew it didn't have to be a grand slam."
Monroe able to play Monday
(4/9/2007) Craig Monroe (leg) was able to start Monday's game at Baltimore after sitting out on Sunday. He was 1-for-3 with a run scored, ending an 0-for-10 drought in his career against Orioles starter Daniel Cabrera.
Monroe deals with sore leg
(4/9/2007) OF/1B Marcus Thames started in left field Sunday in place of LF Craig Monroe. Monroe got the start Monday in Baltimore.
Monroe hits a sac fly
(4/7/2007) Craig Monroe had a sacrifice fly against the Royals Friday night. Monroe, after starting the year 0-for-9, also got his first hit of the season with a double in the fifth. He was supposed to sit Thursday, but the game was postponed because of chilly temperatures.
Monroe could still start on Friday
(4/6/2007) 1B Sean Casey has just one hit in two games this season but was still penciled into manager Jim Leyland's scheduled lineup Thursday against a left-handed pitcher. The game was chilled out as temperatures barely got above freezing. Leyland had Casey in the lineup with his probable alternate, OF/1B Marcus Thames, playing left field.
Monroe gets the Golden Sombrero
(4/2/2007) Tigers LF Craig Monroe went 0-for-4 with four strikeouts in Monday's opening day loss to Toronto.
Monroe sends one into the bleachers
(3/24/2007) Tigers OF Craig Monroe went 2-for-4 with two runs, one homer and two RBI during Saturday's spring game against the Astros. He is now hitting .333 with six runs, two doubles, two homers and seven RBI in 14 spring games.
Monroe, Tigers avoid arbitration
(1/17/2007) The Tigers avoided salary arbitration with all four of the players that filed, agreeing to one-year contracts Tuesday with outfielder Craig Monroe, left-hander Nate Robertson, right-handed reliever Fernando Rodney and infielder Omar Infante. Monroe will make $4,775,000 this season after tying a franchise record with five homers in one postseason, helping the Tigers reach the World Series for the first time since 1984. The 29-year-old left fielder had 12 assists, tied for second among American League outfielders.
(9/25/2006) LF Craig Monroe and 3B Brandon Inge hit back-to-back home runs in the second inning. The last time the Tigers had back-to-back home runs was July 31 at Tampa Bay, Monroe and Dmitri Young.
Craig Monroe bats third
(9/7/2006) Craig Monroe batted third for the sixth time this season on Thursday. Monroe has batted either seventh or eighth in 70 games this year.
Monroe sets career high in HR
(9/1/2006) Craig Monroe slammed a shot into the left-field bleachers in the first inning against the Angels Friday.
Tigers' Monroe gets picked off
(8/16/2006) Craig Monroe was picked off first base in the fifth Tuesday.
Monroe nearing Comerica HR title
(8/10/2006) Craig Monroe needs two homers at Comerica Park to tie Carlos Pena's career record of 37.
Monroe hitting with authority
(8/8/2006) Craig Monroe extended his hitting streak to a career-best 14 games with a first-inning single on Monday against the Twins. The hit also increased Monroe's career batting average against Minnesota to .348.
Monroe hitting with authority
(8/7/2006) DH Craig Monroe has a 13-game hitting streak after going 2-for-4 Sunday. Monroe has a .412 batting average (21-for-51) during the streak.
Craig Monroe on fire
(8/6/2006) Craig Monroe was 2-for-4 with an RBI on Sunday against Cleveland.
Craig Monroe: I feel fine
(7/30/2006) Craig Monroe, who got a cramp in his left quadriceps while running to first on his game-winning single Friday, was back in the lineup as the DH on Saturday. "I feel fine," said Monroe, who left Friday's game for pinch-runner Marcus Thames. The day off from the outfield was a precaution because of the Metrodome's artificial turf. Monroe entered the game hitting .340 lifetime against Minnesota, fourth best among active players.
Three more hits for Monroe
(7/27/2006) OF Craig Monroe was 3-for-4 against Cleveland Thursday and is hitting .444 (12-for-27) with a home run and six RBI over his last seven games.
Monroe bats out of two-hole
(7/25/2006) With Placido Polanco (head), the Tigers' regular No. 2 hitter out of the lineup, Leyland moved OF Craig Monroe to the second spot. He went 2-for-4 with an RBI.
Craig Monroe returns to lineup
(7/22/2006) Tigers LF Craig Monroe returned to the lineup Saturday vs. Oakland after missing Friday's game with a hamstring injury. He went 2-for-5 with a run scored.
Monroe sits out Friday night
(7/21/2006) Craig Monroe (hamstring) was back out of the lineup for Friday's game against the Athletics.
Craig Monroe hurts hamstring
(7/20/2006) Craig Monroe limped to the dugout with a hamstring injury after scoring the go-ahead run on Thursday against the White Sox and was replaced in the outfield by Alexis Gomez. Leyland said Monroe could be out a couple of days.
Craig Monroe hits grand slam
(7/19/2006) Craig Monroe hit Detroit's first grand slam of the season to lead the Tigers to a 5-2 victory over the Chicago White Sox on Wednesday night, beating the defending World Series champions for just the second time in eight games.
Monroe hits two-run homer
(7/5/2006) Craig Monroe hit a two-run homer, leading the Detroit Tigers over the Oakland Athletics 10-4 Wednesday to avoid a three-game sweep. He was 2-for-4 with two RBI in the game.
Monroe has hit streak snapped
(7/5/2006) Craig Monroe had his six-game hitting streak snapped Tuesday, while Carlos Guillen extended his hitting streak to eight games.
Monroe drives in two runs
(7/2/2006) Craig Monroe (knee) was back in the Tigers lineup Sunday after missing two games. He went 1-for-4 with an RBI double.
Monroe out for Saturday's game
(7/1/2006) Craig Monroe (knee) missed his second consecutive on Saturday at Pittsburgh, although he is available as a pinch hitter.
Craig Monroe out of action
(6/30/2006) Craig Monroe (ankle) was not in the starting lineup on Friday at Pittsburgh.
Monroe, Ordonez could be limited
(6/30/2006) Magglio Ordonez and Craig Monroe both are nursing injuries, and one might not play Friday at Pittsburgh. Ordonez had to leave Wednesday's game in the fourth inning after he fouled a ball off his left shin, leaving a knot bigger than a golf ball on his leg. He finished his at-bat, singling to center, but limped off the field after reaching first base. Monroe is still bothered by a sore ankle he hurt trying to make a catch a month ago. It gets better, then he aggravates it playing.
Craig Monroe lays down a bunt
(6/29/2006) Craig Monroe is fighting a sore ankle, but used his reputation as a power hitter to good advantage Wednesday against Houston. He laid down a bunt single that drove in a run from third in the sixth and expanded a 1-0 lead to two runs. Monroe went 1-for-4 with an RBI in the contest.
Monroe continues to contribute
(6/28/2006) Craig Monroe has been hitting the ball squarely and giving the Detroit Tigers a lift every couple of days. Tuesday night, he thumped an RBI double off the left field wall that nearly was a three-run home run.
Monroe back in the lineup
(6/23/2006) Craig Monroe (quadriceps) was back in the lineup for Friday's game against the Cardinals. He was batting eighth and starting in left field in manager Jim Leyland's lineup.
Monroe should be fine vs. Cards
(6/23/2006) Craig Monroe, who left Wednesday's contest against Milwaukee with a strained quadriceps, is expected to be in the Detroit lineup Friday against St. Louis.
(6/22/2006) Craig Monroe had to leave Wednesday's game against Milwuakee in the seventh inning with a strained quadriceps. He was at second with a double, his third hit of the game, and Nate Robertson was batting when Monroe was replaced at second by Curtis Granderson, who was rested.
Struggling Monroe has big day
(6/21/2006) Craig Monroe went 3-for-3 with three doubles, a pair of runs and an RBI on Wednesday, raising his average to .240.
Craig Monroe reaches the seats
(6/20/2006) Monroe was 1-for-3 with a two-run home run and sacrifice fly in Tuesday's game at Milwaukee, as he finished with three RBI overall.
Monroe not ready to play field
(6/15/2006) Craig Monroe (ankle) started at DH Wednesday vs. Tampa Bay, but is still not ready to play the field. Tigers manager Jim Leyland said that he might try using Monroe at first base during this weekend's interleague series in Chicago.
Monroe back in the lineup
(6/14/2006) Craig Monroe (ankle) was back in the starting lineup for manager Jim Leyland on Wednesday night against the Devil Rays.
Craig Monroe sits on Tuesday
(6/13/2006) OF Craig Monroe (right ankle) and 1B Chris Shelton were out of the lineup Tuesday. Manager Jim Leyland used Monroe as a DH on Monday, and said he should've given him the day off instead. "He could play but wouldn't be 100 percent," Leyland said. Shelton is expected to be back on the field Wednesday. "Poor guy's really struggling," Leyland said.
Monroe limited to DH duties
(6/12/2006) Craig Monroe (right ankle) was in the lineup as the DH instead of in LF. "He's not 100 percent," Jim Leyland said.
Monroe out again Sunday
(6/11/2006) OF Craig Monroe (sprained ankle) didn't start for the fourth consecutive game Sunday. He injured it while trying to make a catch at the wall Wednesday.
Monroe resting sprained ankle
(6/11/2006) OF Craig Monroe (sprained ankle) didn't start for the third consecutive game Saturday. He injured it while trying to make a catch at the wall Wednesday.
Monroe resting sprained ankle
(6/10/2006) OF Craig Monroe (sprained ankle) didn't start for the second consecutive game. He injured it while trying to make a catch at the wall Wednesday.
Craig Monroe has injured ankle
(6/9/2006) Craig Monroe sprained his right ankle trying to make a catch Wednesday night, but was walking around better in the clubhouse before Thursday night's game and might be ready to play this weekend in Toronto. Trainer Kevin Rand said Monroe could put weight on his ankle and swelling was minimal.
Craig Monroe out with ankle
(6/8/2006) Craig Monroe (ankle) was not in the starting lineup on Thursday at Chicago.
Monroe hurt after hitting wall
(6/7/2006) Detroit Tigers left fielder Craig Monroe was forced to leave Wednesday night's game against the Chicago White Sox when he sprained his right ankle leaping against the fence in an attempt to catch a third-inning triple by Scott Podsednik. X-rays were negative and Monroe will be re-evaluated Thursday. Monroe nearly caught Podsednik's drive that hit the top of the fence and went for an RBI triple. Monroe came up limping and was examined in left field by a trainer. He was helped off the field and replaced by Alexis Gomez.
Monroe hurt after hitting wall
(6/7/2006) Detroit Tigers left fielder Craig Monroe was forced to leave Wednesday night's game against the Chicago White Sox when he hurt his right leg leaping against the fence in an attempt to catch a third-inning triple by Scott Podsednik. Monroe nearly caught Podsednik's drive that hit the top of the fence and went for an RBI triple.
Craig Monroe hitless vs. Mussina
(6/1/2006) Craig Monroe went hitless in three at-bats against Mike Mussina in Wednesday's 6-1 loss to the N.Y. Yankees.
Craig Monroe collects four hits
(5/26/2006) Craig Monroe, who was given Wednesday off by manager Jim Leyland, bounced back in a big way Thursday with four hits. He started Detroit's game-tying three-run rally in the eighth inning with a single.
Craig Monroe rested Wednesday
(5/25/2006) Craig Monroe got a game off Wednesday under manager Jim Leyland's plan to give his regulars more rest. Marcus Thames received the start in his absence.
Craig Monroe horrible in May
(5/16/2006) Craig Monroe is hitting just 7-for-42 (.167) in the month of May to lower his batting average to .230 on the season.
Monroe hits seventh home run
(5/3/2006) Craig Monroe went 1-for-3 with a home run in Tuesday's win over the Kansas City Royals. He now has nine hits in his last 20 at-bats.
Monroe hits sixth home run
(5/2/2006) Craig Monroe went 1-for-3 with a home run in Monday's win over the Kansas City Royals. He now has eight hits in his last 17 at-bats.
Monroe breaks through slump
(5/1/2006) LF Craig Monroe appears to have broken out of his early-season slump. Monroe had a leadoff single in the fifth that preceded DH Marcus Thames' fourth home run of the season, breaking a scoreless tie.
Twin killer Monroe has two hits
(4/29/2006) Craig Monroe was 2-for-5 with a pair of doubles, a run scored and two strikeouts in Friday's game against the Twins.
Monroe wears golden sombrero
(4/25/2006) Craig Monroe was 0-for-4 with four strikeouts in Monday's game at L.A. Angels, taking the old golden sombrero. The hitless performance dropped his average to a lowly .207.
No hits, but Craig Monroe improves
(4/24/2006) Craig Monroe hasn't been getting a lot of hits in recent weeks, but he's swinging the bat better. He belted a critical three-run home run in the eighth inning Sunday to help the Tigers expand a 3-1 lead to 6-1, a margin that proved necessary when Seattle rallied for three runs in the bottom of the eighth.
Monroe, Inge knock in three apiece
(4/20/2006) Craig Monroe and Brandon Inge also had three RBI each at Oakland Wednesday. The Tigers won for only the third time in 10 games after starting the season 5-0.
(4/17/2006) Craig Monroe went hitless with one strikeout in three at-bats in Monday's 10-2 loss to Cleveland. He is now hitting .204 for the season.
Monroe snaps strikeout streak
(4/15/2006) Craig Monroe ended a string of six straight strikeouts with a ninth-inning single Saturday. Monroe is hitting .222 in 45 at-bats. "It's tough to go through periods like this," he said. "I feel like I'm seeing the ball well, but I'm not squaring it up. It's only 40 at-bats, and I think I have 500 left. I've had success in the past, and I just have to trust my talent."
Monroe snaps strikeout streak
(4/15/2006) Craig Monroe struck out in his first three at-bats Saturday vs. Cleveland then singled in the ninth to snap his streak of six consecutive strikeouts.
Monroe snaps strikeout streak
(4/15/2006) Craig Monroe struck out in his first three at-bats then singled in the ninth to snap his streak of six consecutive strikeouts.
Monroe homers vs. White Sox
(4/12/2006) Craig Monroe hit a home run (his only hit in four at-bats) on Wednesday vs. Chicago. It's his third homer of the season and second in two games for Detroit.
Monroe hits second homer
(4/10/2006) Craig Monroe went 2-for-4 with a run and two RBI vs. Chicago on Monday. Monroe hit a two-run homer off of Freddy Garcia.
Monroe joins in homer parade
(4/7/2006) Craig Monroe was 1-for-4 with a home run and two RBI in Thursday's game at Texas, as the Tigers tagged starter R.A. Dickey for six home runs.
Tigers bottom feeders soar
(4/4/2006) Detroit's sixth through ninth hitters were 8-for-15 with three home runs, while the top five spots in the order went a combined 1-for-20 on opening day.
Monroe to hit sixth for Tigers
(3/25/2006) Tigers manager Jim Leyland has finally settled on a lineup to start the season. Curtis Granderson will lead off followed by: Placido Polanco, Ivan Rodriguez, Magglio Ordonez, Dmitri Young, Craig Monroe, Carlos Guillen, Shelton and Brandon Inge.
Craig Monroe to hit second
(3/24/2006) Craig Monroe hit second for Detroit in Thursday's spring game, and manager Jim Leyland might have him bat there against left-handed starters. Monroe hits lefties well and would give the Tigers some power at the top of the order.
Monroe happy with progress
(3/22/2006) Craig Monroe is happy with his progress this spring, despite struggling with injuries. He went 2-for-4 with a double and two RBI. "I've worked very hard on my swing and continue to get better," he said. "I trust it. I'm not even thinking about things. I just let it happen."
Craig Monroe solid since return
(3/21/2006) Craig Monroe has been swinging a very hot bat for Detroit since getting into action. He had three hits Monday and has hit safely in each game he's played since missing the first two weeks of spring training with muscle ailments.
Monroe looks healthy Saturday
(3/19/2006) Tigers designated hitter Craig Monroe hit a full-count solo home run in his first at-bat of the spring in the third inning Saturday vs. the Dodgers. He had missed the previous two weeks because of strains in his oblique and quadriceps.
More pressure on Craig Monroe
(3/15/2006) Craig Monroe has yet to play a spring training game. Manager Jim Leyland says time is running out on his left fielder, who was sidelined first by a strained oblique muscle and then by a quad that became sore while he was trying to keep his legs in shape. "I'm not going to have somebody active if they're only going to have 10 or 15 at-bats under their belt in spring training," Leyland said of Monroe. "This is not a ploy to rush anybody up because I don't want to do that. But at some point you've got to say what's the cut-off time."
Craig Monroe now has sore quad
(3/10/2006) MLB.com reports Craig Monroe, who has missed time due to a sore oblique muscle, said Thursday he hurt his right quadriceps while chasing fly balls in practice earlier this week. There is no timetable for his return.
Craig Monroe close to return
(3/7/2006) MLB.com reports Craig Monroe (sore side muscle) said he's "hitting full-go" now and felt well enough Monday to work out. Whether that means he'll play in the next couple of days remains to be seen.
Monroe set to return for Tigers
(3/3/2006) The Detroit News reports Craig Monroe (sore side muscle) will be able to play in his first spring game this weekend.
Leyland praises Craig Monroe
(3/1/2006) MLB.com reports Tigers manager Jim Leyland has been impressed with Craig Monroe to this point in camp. "He's a professional player that's about to take another step up, I think," Leyland said. "I like him a lot. He's got personality. In fact, he's one of my favorites.
Monroe lands in Round Nine
(2/10/2006) Craig Monroe was the 99th overall selection (ninth round) in the 2006 CBS SportsLine.com AL Experts League. He recorded a .277 BA with 20 home runs, 89 RBI and eight steals in 567 AB in 2005.
Tigers, Monroe avoid arbitration
(2/3/2006) Craig Monroe, the last Detroit player in salary arbitration, agreed Thursday to a $2.8 million, one-year contract. The 28-year-old outfielder earned $400,000 last season, when he hit .277 with 20 home runs and a team-high 89 RBI.
Slumping Monroe gets start off
(9/9/2005) OF Craig Monroe, in a 1-for-11 (.091) slide, did not start Thursday. He walked as a pinch hitter.
Monroe takes over in left
(8/14/2005) Craig Monroe will take over as the team's regular left field following an injury to veteran Rondell White in Sunday's game at Kansas City.
Monroe knocks in five
(7/9/2005) Craig Monroe homered and drove in a season-high five runs for the visiting Tigers at Tampa Bay Friday. He went 2-for-3 with a walk and a sacrifice fly.
Craig Monroe goes 3-for-4
(5/19/2005) Monroe had three singles in four at-bats Wednesday against the Devil Rays. He scored a run and knocked in another in the contest.
Monroe plays, gets ejected
(5/8/2005) Craig Monroe (groin) started Saturday's game at the Angels, but he was ejected for slamming his helmet after what he thought was a bad call on the bases. "Sometimes you get caught up in the game," said Monroe, back in the lineup after missing Friday night's game with a groin strain. "I had been sitting a couple of days just watching, and we just hadn't been getting any breaks. I have emotions and I'm an emotional player. Maybe it wasn't the best time, being short-handed with guys, but I believed I was safe."
(5/7/2005) Craig Monroe (mild groin strain) was a late scratch from Friday's game at the Angels. Marcus Thames started in right field in his place.
Monroe in Tigers' outfield
(5/6/2005) Craig Monroe (strained right groin) is playing right field Friday against the Angels. He missed one game with the injury.
Monroe sits on Thursday
(5/5/2005) Craig Monroe (strained right groin) missed Thursday's game against the Red Sox.
Monroe likely out on Thursday
(5/5/2005) The Detroit Free Press reports Craig Monroe suffered a mild groin strain Wednesday night as he moved toward right-center on David Ortiz's fly ball to right in the seventh of the Tigers' loss. Nook Logan replaced him.
Craig Monroe leaves game
(5/4/2005) Monroe left Wednesday's game against the Red Sox in the seventh inning due to a strained right groin.
Monroe drives in three runs
(4/28/2005) Craig Monroe was 2-for-4 with a home run and three RBI in Wednesday's game at Cleveland.
Monroe has three-hit game
(4/25/2005) Craig Monroe was 3-for-4 with a triple and an RBI in Monday's game against the Twins.
Monroe continues to hurt Twins
(4/13/2005) Craig Monroe, a career .348 hitter against Minnesota, spoiled Joe Mays' return to the rotation with a two-run home run in the fifth. Monroe went 2-for-4 with two runs and started a rally in the seventh by reaching on an infield single. He scored on Omar Infante's broken-bat blooper that fell in shallow center field with two outs, giving the Tigers a 4-3 lead.
Monroe knocks in a pair
(4/4/2005) Craig Monroe was 1-for-3 with a run scored and two RBI in Monday's regular season opener against the Royals.
Monroe to start in CF for Tigers
(3/29/2005) Craig Monroe was named the Tigers starting center fielder Monday night, according to the Detroit Free Press.
Monroe having huge spring with bat
(3/23/2005) Craig Monroe drove in five runs by hitting two of Detroit's five homers Tuesday. He is hitting .353 this spring with the second-most RBI in baseball, 16.
Monroe drives in five runs
(3/22/2005) Craig Monroe was 3-for-6 with a pair of home runs and five RBI in Tuesday's spring game against the Pirates.
Monroe, White, Higginson battling
(3/2/2005) One of three players -- Craig Monroe, Rondell White or Bobby Higginson -- will emerge as an everyday player in left field for the Tigers.
Monroe has three hits
(9/20/2004) Craig Monroe went 3-for-4 on Monday against Cleveland.
Monroe's streak ends at 12
(9/12/2004) Craig Monroe went 0-for-4 on Saturday against the Twins and ended his career-best hitting streak at a dozen games.
Monroe continue power surge
(9/6/2004) Craig Monroe went 2-for-4 with a home run and two RBI on Monday against Kansas City. He now has 10 home runs in his past 25 games.
Monroe playing with purpose
(8/18/2004) Craig Monroe is playing to earn a regular spot in 2005. Instead of pressing, he is making the best of the opportunity. "It's real easy to think yourself out of what you should be doing," Monroe told the Detroit Free Press. "You put added pressure on yourself and start to go backward, but I'm more focused now. The best thing that happened to me was going down to Toledo to rehab after my injury. I learned how to relax again down there -- to just let go without any pressure."
Monroe powers Tigers
(8/12/2004) Craig Monroe went 3-for-4 with a home run and three RBI Thursday against Oakland. He had an RBI double in the fourth inning, a solo home run in the sixth inning and an RBI single in the eighth inning during the Tiger victory.
Tigers activate Monroe
(8/8/2004) Detroit activated Craig Monroe (hamstring) from the 15-day disabled list Saturday.
Monroe to continue rehab assignment
(8/5/2004) The Detroit Free Press reports that Craig Monroe (hamstring) will stay on his rehab assignment for a few more days despite being eligible to return from the 15-day disabled list.
Monroe to start rehabilitation
(7/31/2004) Craig Monroe will begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Toledo this weekend. He has been sidelined since July 20.
Monroe placed on 15-day DL
(7/21/2004) The Tigers placed Craig Monroe on the 15-day disabled list due to a strained left hamstring.
Monroe back in action
(7/18/2004) Craig Monroe (hamstring) is back in the starting lineup Sunday against the Yankees. He is starting in right field.
Monroe out Saturday
(7/17/2004) Craig Monroe (hamstring) was unable to start against the Yankees Saturday.
Monroe remains out
(7/16/2004) Craig Monroe (hamstring) was not in the starting lineup Friday against the Yankees. He has missed the last five games now.
(7/15/2004) Craig Monroe (hamstring) was not in the starting lineup Thursday against the Yankees. He has now missed the last four games because of the injury.
Monroe remains sidelined
(7/11/2004) The Detroit News reports Craig Monroe continues to be bothered by his strained hamstring.
Monroe rests hamstring
(7/10/2004) Craig Monroe (hamstring) was not in the starting lineup Saturday against Minnesota. He has not played since leaving Thursday's game with a strained left hamstring.
Monroe sidelined
(7/9/2004) Craig Monroe (hamstring) was not in the starting lineup Friday against Minnesota. He was forced to leave Thursday's game because of a strained left hamstring.
Craig Monroe leaves game
(7/9/2004) Monroe left Thursday's game in the sixth inning due to a strained left hamstring.
Monroe drives in four
(6/5/2004) Craig Monroe drove in four runs on two big singles Saturday. He has 12 hits and 8 RBI in his last seven games.
Craig Monroe fighting for spot
(5/20/2004) The Detroit Free Press reports that Monroe is a candidate for being dropped from the 25-man roster once Dmitri Young (leg) returns from the disabled list possibly Tuesday.
Craig Monroe to take over at DH
(4/7/2004) The Detroit Free Press reports that Monroe will hit in the designated hitter spot for Dmitri Young (leg). He is not expected to hit in the cleanup spot however.
Monroe back in the lineup
(3/17/2004) Craig Monroe (thigh) returned to the lineup on Tuesday as the team's designated hitter. He was 1-for-4 with a pair of RBI.
Monroe has sore quadriceps
(3/15/2004) Craig Monroe missed his second straight spring game on Sunday due to sore left quadriceps.
Monroe able to play Thursday
(9/25/2003) Craig Monroe (groin) returned to the starting lineup on Thursday. He was 1-for-5 with a solo home run.
Craig Monroe slowed by groin
(9/25/2003) Monroe was unable to start Wednesday's game due to a strained left groin.
Monroe blasts 18th home run
(8/27/2003) Craig Monroe was 2-for-4 with a double and a solo home run on Wednesday at Cleveland.
Monroe hits two homers
(8/23/2003) Craig Monroe went 2-for-5 with two home runs and six RBI against Anaheim on Saturday.
Big night for Craig Monroe
(7/1/2003) Monroe was 3-for-4 with a home run, three RBI and a stolen base on Tuesday against Toronto.
Monroe fills in admirably
(6/8/2003) Craig Monroe was 2-for-4 with a double, his fifth home run of the season and two RBI on Sunday at San Francisco. Monroe was in the lineup filling in for the injured Bobby Higginson (hamstring).
Craig Monroe in the lineup
(5/22/2003) Monroe is in the lineup on Thursday for Detroit. According to the Detroit Free Press, he hurt his wrist diving for a ball on Wednesday, but X-rays were not taken.
Craig Monroe's wrist is fine
(5/22/2003) The Detroit Free Press says Craig Monroe's left wrist did not need X-rays after he landed on it Wednesday. "I thought there was no chance it was still together," Monroe said. "I went in and watched the replay, and that was bad. I was blessed that I'm able to have a little soreness than to have to go on the disabled list or miss a few months."
Another good game for Monroe
(5/7/2003) Craig Monroe continues to swing a hot bat for a team in desperate need of offense. Monroe was 2-for-4 with a home run and four RBI.
Monroe off to hot start for Tigers
(5/6/2003) Since being recalled from Triple-A Toledo on April 18, Craig Monroe has batted .311 (14-for-45), good for second among all American League rookies to Rocco Baldelli.
Monroe promoted to the majors
(4/19/2003) The Detroit Tigers purchased the contract of Craig Monroe from Triple-A Toledo of the International League on Friday.
Tigers outright Monroe to Triple-A
(1/27/2003) The Detroit Tigers sent outright Monroe's contract to Triple-A Toledo on Friday. The move was made to clear a roster spot for Julio Santana, whom the team re-signed to a one-year deal.
(9/21/2002) The Tigers recalled Monroe from Triple-A Toledo and started him in left field Friday against the Yankees. Manager Luis Pujols said he plans to play Monroe regularly in left field for the rest of the season. If you’re hurting for outfielders in an AL-only league, Monroe might be worth considering.
(9/4/2001) The Rangers recalled Monroe from Triple-A Oklahoma Monday. Monitor his progress. He might be able to earn some playing time in the outfield. Monroe batted .280 with 20 homers and a team high 75 RBIs in 114 games at Oklahoma. He also hit .257 with two homers and four RBIs in 14 games with the Rangers in July and August.
(8/20/2001) The Texas Rangers optioned Monroe to Triple-A Sunday and purchased the contract of pitcher Dan Kolb to replace him. Monroe hit .257 with two homers and four RBIs in 35 at-bats with the Rangers this season.
(7/27/2001) The Texas Rangers purchased Monroe's contract from Oklahoma of the Pacific Coast League Thursday to replace the injured Ruben Sierra. Monroe, 24, was to make his major league debut Friday night against Tampa Bay. He had 19 homers and 63 RBIs in 101 games with Oklahoma this season.
