More than anything, Detroit Tigers pitcher Dontrelle Willis’ demotion to Class-A Lakeland is a mission of self-discovery. Shaken by consistent failures in the last two seasons, Willis will have an opportunity to tear down his approach and rebuild the confidence that made him a Cy Young contender with the Florida Marlins in 2005.

The control problems that Willis was sent down to solve, according to the Detroit Tiger Weblog, were a byproduct of his mental state, but it remains to be seen if a full recovery is in his future.

The demotion was a desperate move, to be sure, but one that was imperative after the way Willis has performed in a Tigers uniform. The lefty has pitched to a 10.32 ERA and walked 21 batters in 11.1 innings in 2008, earning a new nickname from DTW: D-saster. Monday’s start was a culmination of his problems, as he walked five and allowed two home runs and eight earned runs in 1.1 innings of work.

Willis’ willingness to accept a minor league assignment, especially one where he bypasses two levels in the minors, is an encouraging sign, but there is plenty of work left to be done. He will be in a place where inexperienced, 19 and 20 year-old hitters can help him get rid of some doubts, and he can be free of major league pressures while working on mechanical issues.

To state the obvious, control numbers will serve as indicator of Willis’ progress in Lakeland. As he starts to command the strike zone again, Willis will earn consideration for a recall.

Other Opinions
Where Have You Gone, Johnny Grubb? wonders if Willis will walk down the same path as Steve Blass.

Deadspin tries to pinpoint where and when it all went wrong.

Jamie Samuelsen of the Detroit Free Press believes the demotion was a good call.

Dustin Hockensmith is editor of ImaginaryDiamond.com. He can be contacted at dhockensmith[at]fantasysports101.net.