Detroit Tigers: Predicting 2020 Tigers Roster

Outfield Starters/Designated Hitter

Left Field: Justin Upton

Upton is an obvious candidate to be dealt if the Detroit Tigers are looking to shed salary this offseason. However, given Upton’s initial struggles and a contract that (per Spotrac) allows him to have an annual 20-team no-trade list, he may be sticking around in Detroit.

If he can provide production more akin to what he did down the stretch in 2016, Tigers fans should be just fine with that.

Center Field: JaCoby Jones

For now, this spot belongs to Jones. His ability to change the game with his athleticism, speed and pop will keep him in the lineup—regardless of position.

With Detroit not having much of a bridge between incumbent starter Cameron Maybin and the team’s center fielder of the future (Derek Hill), Jones could play center while Hill develops. Either way, the Tigers will be in good hands.

Right Field: Christin Stewart

A slugging outfield prospect who draws a ton of walks, Stewart could be in the Majors as early as next season. The former first-round pick will eventually start in Detroit, the question then becomes, where?

His current position is in left field. That could be where he ends up if Upton is dealt or switches to right field. However, Stewart could move across to right or end up at designated hitter. Mike Gerber would be a starting option for the long haul if Stewart doesn’t end up playing on the right side of the infield.

Designated Hitter/Key Reserves: Mike Gerber, Jose Azocar Tyler Collins and Steven Moya

The Tigers remaining outfield options—Gerber, Jose Azocar, Tyler Collins and Steven Moya—could start at designated hitter.

Next: 3 K-Rod Trades That Could Benefit the Tigers

All four would bring different skill sets while providing interesting pinch hitting options off the bench. Hill could make an impact as a pinch runner if he isn’t starting every day.