Detroit Tigers: Projecting Long-Term Replacements for Veterans Part 1

J.D. Martinez
Age: 29
Position: Right Fielder
Contract Expires Following the 2017 Season

It remains to be seen whether J.D. Martinez sticks with the Detroit Tigers long term.

Detroit has certainly received plenty of value for a player they signed as a free agent in late March of 2014.

In three seasons in the Motor City, the outfielder has developed into one of the best players at his position in the league.

Over 401 games, the right fielder has hit .299 with an .898 OPS. He’s also turned in 246 RBI, 219 runs scored, 98 doubles, 83 home runs, 10 stolen bases and seven triples.

In total, Martinez has posted a 10.8 WAR with the Tigers, while his wRC+ numbers have checked in at 154, 137 and 142 respectively.

Potential Long-Term Replacement: Christin Stewart

Unlike the other veterans, this one is slightly more difficult to forecast.

Should Martinez depart before Opening Day 2018—whether that be via trade or free agency—Detroit will be in need of a replacement.

Over the long haul the answer is probably Christin Stewart.

A powerful outfielder with a penchant for drawing walks, Stewart has serious upside as an impact performer at the dish.

However, the outfielder just reached Double-A for the first time last season, and he may not be ready for a starting gig in Detroit a year from now.

If he isn’t ready, some combination of Tyler Collins, Steven Moya and Mikie Mahtook will likely serve as stop-gap options.