"Second baseman Will Rhymes had a career highlight Wednesday, and he seemed moved by it.

The highlight didn't happen on the field. It came from the office of Jim Leyland.

Without being asked, the Tigers manager told reporters in his office Wednesday morning that Rhymes "will play in the big leagues." Leyland called Rhymes "a dirtball (with) a short, quick stroke" and pointed out he has the advantage of being a left-handed-hitting infielder.

Rhymes hit .306 at Double-A Erie last year and led the Eastern League in hits.

Informed of Leyland's praise, Rhymes said, "It definitely makes me happy to hear that. I've always thought I could (play in the big leagues). But to hear someone who has such experience and such knowledge of the game say that, it means a lot."

The meaning became more evident when Rhymes was asked who, before Leyland, had said something about his ability that inspired him.

"To be honest, most of the things I've heard have been negative in some way," he said with a chuckle. "But I'm really not worried about what other people think. I know what I'm capable of."

Then he added: "It's definitely good to get something encouraging."

Rhymes, who turns 26 next month, is listed at 5-9 and 155 pounds. The Tigers drafted him in the 27th round of the 2005 draft, out of the College of William