Detroit Tigers: Should they sell high on Mikie Mahtook?

DETROIT, MI - SEPTEMBER 15: Mikie Mahtook #15 of the Detroit Tigers singles to drive in Jeimer Candelario of the Detroit Tigers from third base to beat the Chicago White Sox 3-2 in the ninth inning at Comerica Park on September 15, 2017 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images) /

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DETROIT, MI – SEPTEMBER 5: Mikie Mahtook #15 of the Detroit Tigers rounds the bases after hitting a two-run home run against the Kansas City Royals during the second inning at Comerica Park on September 5, 2017 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images) /

Long-term piece?

In a time where controllability is king, Mikie Mahtook certainly fits the bill as a long-term asset for a team.

However, is that team the Detroit Tigers?

The question is more, can the Tigers contend in the next four years?

In a perfect world, Detroit will be able to surprise some people next season and expedite the rebuild somewhat.

Relatively strong seasons from Fulmer, Matthew Boyd and Daniel Norris would certainly go a long way toward achieving that goal.

That being said, the reality is that much of Detroit’s exciting young talent is either at Double-A or in the low minors.

So while the likes of Franklin Perez, Beau Burrows, Grayson Long and Dawel Lugo could be in the Majors at some point next season, it could also take them longer to reach Detroit.

All in all, there are a lot of variables that could make this a shorter rebuild or a lengthier one.

If the Tigers think they can turn things around sooner rather than later, it make sense to hang on to Mahtook.

However, if it’s a lengthier rebuild, Detroit may find it prudent to move Mahtook while his value is high.

The team also have Mike Gerber and Christin Stewart close to the Majors.

Detroit can always deal Mahtook for prospects and sign a veteran to a short-term deal to serve as a place holder for Gerber or Stewart.