Cabrera confident he'll be ready for spring training: 'I want to play'

DETROIT (FOX 2) - He was down -- but he's not out.

Miguel Cabera is sounding confident he'll be ready for the start of spring training after the 35-year-old played only 38 games before biceps surgery cut his season short in June.

So far it's been about working out and getting his swing back.

"I want to play," he said. "It's been a long time sitting and watching games so I think I'm ready to go on the field and be with the team and play baseball."

Coach Gardenhire said just based on Miggy's knowledge and leadership in the way he plays the game, having him back, especially with all the new players, is going to be huge.

"I gave him a big hug I'll tell you that right now," he said. "I can't wait to see him back on the field. ... Our goal is going to get through spring training and make sure we don't kill him."

Cabera is among dozens of players heading out on the 2019 Winter Caravan, making stops including the Children's Hospital of Michigan, Selfridge Air National Guard and Michigan Veterans Foundation.

Fans can hang out with their favorites on on Thursday at the Novi Civic Center and Novi High School. On Friday you can grab a 'dog with them at National Coney Island in Royal Oak or get some help picking out a new best friend at the Michigan Humane Society.

Players will also be heading up north and out west. For a full schedule, click here.