Detroit Tigers: Is James McCann still the long-term solution behind the plate?

Detroit Tigers catcher James McCann has been on a tear at the plate as of late. This hot streak, coupled with Alex Avila being dealt begs the question, is McCann still the team’s catcher of the future?

Detroit Tigers fans have seen some much-improved play out of James McCann in recent weeks.

Since the calendar turned to June 20, McCann is batting .385 with a .452 on-base percentage, a .615 slugging percentage and a 1.067 OPS.

The same span has also seen the 27-year-old notch a 188 wRC+, a .231 ISO, a .452 wOBA, 13 RBI, nine runs scored, six doubles and three home runs in 73 plate appearances.

Fellow backstop Alex Avila’ presence on the roster limited McCann’s plate appearances due to his own strong play.

However, with Avila now playing for the Cubs, it opens up a steady stream of playing time for McCann.

John Hicks will chip in behind the plate as well, but with the path cleared for McCann to catch full time, it raises the question, is James McCann still the Detroit Tigers’ long-term solution behind the dish?

The third-year veteran isn’t exactly a rookie any more at 27. While he’s still young, McCann hasn’t been able to put it all together on a consistent basis.

We’ve seen his offense take off in recent weeks, while his defensive abilities were on fine display last season.

Is he still the catcher of the future in the Motor City? Let’s take a deep dive to find out.