Almost sheepishly, Miguel Cabrera told Detroit reporters this week that he had sought treatment for his alcoholism, which came to light as a result of his partying during the final weekend of the season, at a time when the Tigers were fighting the Minnesota Twins for a playoff spot. During the final weekend, Cabrera went out drinking with several members of the Chicago White Sox, against whom the Tigers were playing. Cabrera became the face of Detroit's late-season flop when the Tigers were edged out of the playoffs by the Minnesota Twins.

At the time, Cabrera was characterized as selfish, dismissive and immature, a description that's trailed him for years. In interactions with reporters, Cabrera has also been known to be combative and rude.