Alex Avila says Miguel Cabrera has shed 20-25 pounds

(WXYZ) - Miguel Cabrera is the Tigers new third baseman.

That's not news.

He's got the bat to be an everyday, spectacular Major League third baseman.

That's not news either.

But news that the 240-pound All-Star is 92.5% of the man he was last season?

That's news.

Cabrera's teammate Alex Avila told ESPN's Karl Ravech Friday his offseason workout partner has dropped 20-25 pounds this winter.

Avila called in to "Baseball Tonight" to discuss Prince Fielder, Justin Verlander, and the keys to Detroit's success this upcoming year.

After the interview, Ravech said Avila tweeted him to share the update on Cabrera's fitness.

Much has been made about Cabrera's move across the infield. By shedding some weight, the 28-year old infielder alleviates some nerves Tigers fans had about the move.

And in case you were wondering, Avila was at the dentist when he heard the Tigers agreed to terms with Prince Fielder.

"I was getting a cavity filled, so I had no idea what was going on. I get out of the dentist and all of a sudden I had a bunch of missed calls and text messages."

The Tigers open Spring Training February 19, with pitchers and catchers beginning workouts February 20. Position players arrive February 23 with the first full team workout February 24.