Detroit Tigers: Assessing Team’s Center Field Options

Other Internal Options

Justin Upton

Upton probably won’t see too much playing time in center field, but the Tigers could deploy him there for 10 or 15 games in order to free up occasional at-bats for Steven Moya or another corner outfielder.

Andrew Romine

In 130.2 defensive innings as a center fielder, Romine quietly turned in a 1.3 UZR and a 10.2 UZR/150. Both of those numbers led Tigers center fielders last season.

However, Romine’s defensive flexibility will likely provide more value in his usual utility role.

Mike Gerber

A relative long shot given that Gerber just reached Double-A for the first time last season. However, crazier things have happened.

It’s also hard to ignore the prospect’s production so far. In just three minor league seasons, Gerber has stuffed the stat sheet with 198 RBI, 187 runs scored, 80 doubles, 38 home runs, 33 stolen bases and 20 triples.

In 132 games split between Lakeland and Erie, the outfielder batted .276 with a .345 on-base percentage. He also added 80 RBI, 69 runs scored, 30 doubles, 18 home runs, eight stolen bases and six triples.

Connor Harrell

Another long shot, Harrell completed his second season at Erie in 2016. The former seventh-round pick hit .273 with a .340 on-base percentage.

The 6’3” outfielder also added 60 runs scored, 32 RBI, 17 doubles, 10 home runs and six stolen bases.