It was simple to compile a list of free-agent pitchers who could help the Detroit Tigers in 2024.
A comparable list of free-agent hitters would most likely be…empty.
The Tigers are not an offensive powerhouse. Not at all.
There are no untouchable core players in the lineup.
But it’s a weak free-agent position player class, and the Tigers aren’t interested in spending a lot of money on what could be minor upgrades.
They also don’t want to obstruct young players who will be on the roster soon, possibly as soon as Opening Day.
Catchers Jake Rogers and Carson Kelly; outfielders Mark Canha, Riley Greene, Parker Meadows, and Kerry Carpenter; first baseman Spencer Torkelson; shortstop Javier Baez; and utility players Matt Vierling, Zach McKinstry, and Andy Ibanez would all likely have jobs if the season began today.
That leaves two openings.
If Greene is still limited following Tommy John surgery, outfielder Akil Baddoo, if he is not traded, could be an option.
However, Keith, Justyn-Henry Malloy, or their temporary replacements (such as Tyler Nevin) are the most likely owners of those two vacant spots.
Even if the Tigers scoured the free-agent market, finding a good fit would be difficult.
Last November’s decision to not tender third baseman Jeimer Candelario was one of Scott Harris’ most egregious errors.
Candelario hit 22 home runs and 39 doubles in 140 games for the Washington Nationals and Chicago Cubs, posting an.807 OPS (119 OPS+). Meanwhile, the Tigers used nine different third basemen who combined for a.624 OPS (75 OPS+).
However, Candelario will now be in line for a large contract (three years and $36 million, according to one estimate) that makes little sense (even if the Tigers were willing to swallow their pride and bring him back just 12 months after cutting him).
The Tigers might not even require a third baseman in 2024, let alone in 2025 or 2026.
What about other unrestricted free agents who could add value without breaking the bank?
It would be exciting to see Kevin Kiermaier in center field at Comerica Park, but the Tigers believe Parker Meadows will provide superior defense in 2024 and for many years to come.
The Tigers have a glut of corner outfielders, and the signing of Mark Canha appears to rule out any interest in players like Jorge Soler, Teoscar Hernandez, Lourdes Gurriel, or Joc Pederson.
What about those who are strictly designated hitters?
There was a time when J.D. Martinez could be a good fit on a one-year deal. Perhaps there is still one.
However, there are several reasons why the Tigers may prefer to keep the DH position open in 2024: Greene’s ailing elbow may necessitate an occasional or even full-time DH role to begin the season; the Tigers would like to rotate Spencer Torkelson into the DH spot on occasion; Kerry Carpenter should get plenty of DH at-bats; most expect Malloy’s bat to be far superior to his defense; and Justice Bigbie, if he builds on his 2023 season, could be an option later this summer.
What about a low-cost role player?
The Tigers are already up to their ears in them.
Nevin (out of options), Nick Maton (out of options), Andre Lipcius, Wenceel Perez, Ryan Kreidler, Eddys Leonard, and others join Vierling, McKinstry, and Ibanez.
That is not to say that nothing will change in the lineup between now and March 28. But don’t be surprised if the Tigers avoid the free-agent market this year.
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