Detroit Tigers: Victor Martinez Could Play Some First Base

The Detroit Tigers could play Victor Martinez at first base against National League opposition this season.

In effort to field the best team possible, Detroit Tigers manager Brad Ausmus revealed that Victor Martinez could see action at first base against National League clubs this season. ESPN’s Jayson Stark tweeted that there is optimism from Ausmus regarding Martinez at first. The writer tweeted, “€œOne more from Ausmus on Victor: Hopeful he can even play 1B enough to let Miggy DH some: ‘We didn’€™t have that luxury last year.'”

Stark noted in a separate tweet that “Brad Ausmus says he’€™ll get a start at 1B this week & could play 1B during opening series at Mia,”€ in relation to Martinez.

While the Tigers lineup has improved in the offseason thanks to the additions of Justin Upton and Cameron Maybin, the move to play Victor Martinez at first (and therefore Miguel Cabrera at third) would ensure that Detroit fields an elite, run-scoring juggernaut that features Martinez, Upton, Cabrera, J.D. Martinez and Ian Kinsler.

There are obvious concerns, especially where defense and health are concerned. However, if V-Mart is healthy, spending some time spent at first base could be a definite positive for Detroit. The Tigers open and close the year with interleague series, and having Martinez at first for those two series increases the likelihood of both a strong start and a strong finish. 

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Over his career with Detroit, the 37-year-old has played 62 games at first, including 10 last year and 35 in 2014. His presence in the lineup will be especially welcomed if a bounce-back season is on the cards.

Martinez had an uncharacteristic down year in 2015, hitting a mere .245 with only 20 doubles, 11 home runs, 64 RBI and a .667 OPS. The designated hitter was limited to 120 games because of injuries.

Those injuries seem to be a thing of the past, as the veteran has demolished opposing pitching in Spring Training. In nine contests, Martinez is hitting .308 with five RBI, four runs scored, two home runs, a double and a .910 OPS. Not only is he producing at the plate, but V-Mart also looks healthy and stronger.

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Given his health, it would be advantageous to give him playing time at first base. In addition to monitoring Martinez’ health, the Tigers will need to keep an eye on Miguel Cabrera, who is also coming off an injury-shortened season.

Having Martinez spell Cabrera at first base on occasion would certainly help keep Cabrera healthy and fresh for the inevitable stretch run that is likely to occur for the Tigers. Additionally, having Victor Martinez log more reps at first will ready him for defensive duties in a potential World Series.

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