Detroit Tigers: Breaking Down Bench Candidates

Outfielders

JaCoby Jones

Much of the Detroit Tigers reserve outfield situation will depend on the starting center fielder. That could by any number of players, including JaCoby Jones.

The former Pirates farmhand certainly stands out from an upside standpoint given his rare blend of pop and speed. In just 99 games with Toledo, Jones logged 44 runs scored, 43 RBI, 34 extra-base hits and 13 stolen bases.

Tyler Collins

A corner outfielder by trade, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Collins feature in center field come the 2017 season.

Collins didn’t exactly thrive defensively in center field last season (-4 DRS, -11.4 UZR/150), but his offensive potential could see him earn playing time.

The 26-year-old does shows the upside to hit 20 home runs per season given consistent playing time. That offensive upside could see him vault ahead of the unproven Jones and Anthony Gose.

Anthony Gose

Anthony Gose struggled with the Detroit Tigers in 2016.

After 30 games with the Major League club that saw the former Blue Jay bat just .209 with a .628 OPS, Gose also failed to make much contact in the minors.

Over the span of 379 plate appearances (90 games) split between Double-A Erie and Triple-A Toledo, the center fielder hit just .203, including a .185 number with the Mud Hens.

Gose’ speed would bring a different element to Detroit’s roster. However, should the Tigers contend, it is hard to see them routinely starting an outfielder who struggles to get on base.

Steven Moya

The rare Detroit Tigers outfielder who isn’t a center field candidate, Moya would bring intrigue to the bench as a pinch-hitting alternative.

With the ability to obliterate baseballs, Moya has all kinds of offensive upside. However, he is still striking out at a high rate.

Next: Familiar Faces as Potential Free Agent Fits

In limited at-bats, the former top prospect could thrive off the bench given his tendency to hit the ball over the fence.