Detroit Tigers: 10 Best Players from Michigan

Jun 13, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; General view as Detroit Tigers left fielder J.D. Martinez (28) runs to first in the sixth inning against the Minnesota Twins at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

1. Charlie Gehringer

This outstanding baseball player was born near Fowlerville, Michigan, graduated from Fowlerville High School, and attended the University of Michigan. He actually played basketball in college, but was discovered by Bobby Veach who invited him to Navin Field to try out in front of Ty Cobb. He was so impressed with Gehringer that he asked Frank Navin to sign him immediately. 

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He played for 19 years with the Tigers where he dominated at the plate and at his position at second base. Many believe that he was the best second baseman of all time. During his time in Detroit he batted a career .320, with 184 home runs, and 1427 RBIs. He played during the Dead Ball era, so many of his home runs were completed in the park. He won several batting titles as well as the American League MVP in 1937. He played in six All-Star games. In 1929, he led the league in games, plate appearances, runs, hits, doubles, triples, and stolen bases, but was not given any awards or considerations. Each year was a feat of greatness with Charlie Gehringer. His number is retired at Comerica Park and he has a statue in left field, too. In 1949, he was voted into the Hall of Fame.