Detroit Tigers: Three Free Agent Batters Team Should Sign

Luis Valbuena

Position: Infielder
2016 Team: Houston Astros
2016 Stat of Note: 2.6 WAR

One of baseball’s more versatile fielders, Luis Valbuena has significant experience at all four infield positions.

What’s more, he isn’t your typical utility player either.

In 90 games (292 at-bats) for the American League West club last season, the eight-year veteran posted a .357 on-base percentage. He also chipped in with 40 RBI, 38 runs scored, 17 doubles and 13 home runs.

Valbuena also graded out favorably with more advanced statistics, checking in with a 123 wRC+ and a .199 ISO.

Potential Fit in with the Detroit Tigers

Obviously, the former Astro would be an excellent fit as a utility option off the bench. His pop certainly makes him appealing in the role that Mike Aviles and Erick Aybar tried to fill last season.

However thanks to solid wRC+ and ISO numbers, Valbuena could step in as a regular contributor for the Tigers.

Should Ian Kinsler be moved, the 30-year-old represents a solid fall-back plan, while also serving as an offensive upgrade over Dixon Machado and Andrew Romine.

Additionally, should Victor Martinez be dealt, Brad Ausmus can utilize Valbuena across the infield while giving Kinsler, Miguel Cabrera, Nick Castellanos and Jose Iglesias games at designated hitter to keep them fresh.