Let’s take a look at what the Detroit Tigers Opening Day Starting Lineup could look like
Under the strategic guidance of Scott Harris, the President of Baseball Operations, the Detroit Tigers have made significant moves to enhance their team composition. As Spring Training is now underway, and the 2024 season draws near, the Tigers have notably improved their roster. Let’s take a look at my latest prediction for the Detroit Tigers’ Opening Day starting lineup.
The Starting Nine
Here’s an insight into my projections for the Detroit Tigers starting lineup as Opening Day draws near. (All Stats via Baseball Reference)
Catcher: Jake Rogers
2023 Stats: .221 average, 21 home runs, 11 doubles, 1 stolen base
Jake Rogers has earned recognition for his defensive skills and made notable strides offensively last season. His batting average of .221, coupled with 21 homers, signals his growing capability to contribute more consistently at the plate.
First Base: Spencer Torkelson
2023 stats: .233 average, 31 home runs, 34 doubles, 3 stolen bases
Spencer Torkelson, the first overall pick of 2020, displayed his power at the plate last season with 31 home runs. Anticipations are high for his continued development in hitting and fielding. Note: My forecast includes Torkelson making the All-Star team in 2024.
Second Base: Colt Keith
2023 Stats (Minor League State): 306 average, 27 home runs, 38 doubles, 3 stolen bases
Colt Keith appears major league-ready after hitting .306 with 27 home runs across Double-A and Triple-A last season. His anticipated move to second base is being watched with great interest.
Shortstop: Javier Báez
2023 stats: .222 average, 9 home runs, 18 doubles, 12 stolen bases
Despite a tough 2023, Javier Báez remains a pivotal figure in the Tigers’ infield. His vast experience and potential for a bounce-back year solidify his spot in the lineup.
Third Base: Gio Urshela
2023 stats: .299 average, 2 home runs, 24 RBIs
Gio Urshela was just acquired by the Tigers this past week and he could already be their best option at third base. That said, Tigers manager A.J. Hinch has yet to make a final decision about who will start at 3B but Urshela is a solid bet.
Left Field: Mark Canha
2023 stats: .262 average, 11 homers, 25 doubles, 11 stolen bases
Mark Canha adds both experience and a commendable on-base percentage to the left field, a deliberate acquisition by Scott Harris to enhance the team’s dynamics.
Center Field: Parker Meadows
2023 stats: .232 average, 3 home runs, 4 doubles, 8 stolen bases
The defensive prowess of Parker Meadows positions him to excel as a top-tier center fielder, a valuable asset for the vast expanses of Comerica Park.
Right Field: Riley Greene
2023 stats: .288 average, 11 home runs, 19 doubles, 7 stolen bases
The anticipation around Riley Greene‘s comeback from injury is high, given his promising offensive abilities. A successful 2024 could be a game-changer. Note: Greene is also my pick for making the All-Star team in 2024.
Designated Hitter: Kerry Carpenter
2023 stats: .278 average, 20 home runs, 17 doubles, 6 stolen bases
With a .278 average and 20 homers last season, Kerry Carpenter stands out as the prime choice for the designated hitter role, bringing significant power to the lineup.
- Parker Meadows (CF)
- Riley Greene (RF)
- Spencer Torkelson (1B)
- Kerry Carpenter (DH)
- Mark Canha (LF)
- Javier Baez (SS)
- Gio Urshela (3B)
- Zach McKinstry (2B)
- Jake Rogers (C)
TL;DR (too long didn’t read)
- Jake Rogers and Spencer Torkelson have shown promising developments in their offensive capabilities, with Rogers making significant strides and Torkelson demonstrating power at the plate.
- Colt Keith is set to make a notable transition to the majors, signaling readiness with impressive stats in the minor leagues, while Javier Báez looks to rebound, maintaining a crucial role in the infield.
- Riley Greene is eyed for a major comeback, with high expectations for his performance post-injury, alongside Kerry Carpenter, who is positioned to add considerable power as the designated hitter.
Bottom Line
The Detroit Tigers, under the strategic roster enhancements led by Scott Harris, are poised for a compelling 2024 season. With a mix of emerging talents like Colt Keith stepping up, veterans like Javier Báez aiming for a comeback, and promising power hitters such as Spencer Torkelson and Kerry Carpenter, the Tigers’ lineup for Opening Day 2024 showcases a balanced blend of power, defense, and potential breakout stars. This configuration hints at a season filled with potential and anticipation for the Tigers’ fans and the MLB community alike.
