Detroit Tigers: Trading Jose Iglesias makes sense to improve team, save money

Potentially Replacing Jose Iglesias

If this hypothetical trade were to actually happen, the Detroit Tigers would roll with Andrew Romine and Dixon Machado at shortstop.

Earlier in the season, Romine was seeing significant action in center field.

With J.D. Martinez now back from the disabled list and playing in field on a consistent basis, Mikie Mahtook and Tyler Collins have both shifted to center field.

The duo essentially have the position covered for the Tigers.

Detroit could also use Jim Adduci in center field once he returns from the disabled list himself.

The former Rangers outfielder could conceivably start in center field if he can continue to produce at the plate for the Detroit Tigers.

Adduci’s addition to the starting lineup would likely drop the platoon of Mahtook and Collins down the depth chart and onto the bench. That, in turn, would further diminish Romine’s chances of playing center field.

All that being said, the team could plug the veteran back in at shortstop with the younger Machado.

Both are strong defenders, so the drop off in quality from Iglesias wouldn’t be significant.

In fact, the switch to Romine and Machado could be beneficial over the course of a season.

Iglesias’ defensive numbers have been strong in the past. Given more innings in the field, Machado could provide similar stats.

Next: Don't look now, but the Tigers' bullpen is in a really good place

In just 30 innings at shortstop last season, Machado logged some encouraging numbers. Saud stats included a DRS of 2, an rPM of 2 and a UZR/150 of 74.8.