Detroit Tigers: Jeimer Candelario an ideal two hitter

Detroit Tigers manager Ron Gardenhire has Jeimer Candelario second in the lineup to start the season. That’s a great spot for both Candelario and the Tigers.

The Detroit Tigers are 0-1 after a controversial loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates. However, there were plenty of encouraging signs in the first game of the season.

One was the performance of 24-year-old Jeimer Candelario. Candelario made a big impression with the Tigers down the stretch last season, hitting .330 in 94 at-bats. He drew 12 walks, showing exceptional plate coverage for a rookie. Candelario continued that trend in spring training, leading the team with 11 free passes.

His plate discipline and ability to switch-hit led manager Ron Gardenhire to slot him second in the lineup, behind Leonys Martin and ahead of sluggers Miguel Cabrera and Nicholas Castellanos. Candelario responded by going 1-for-4 with a single, a run scored, and three walks.

Candelario is hitting second for the first game of today’s double-header. He will likely remain in that spot as long as he is performing. While he does not not possess much speed, he is clearly the Tigers top choice to bat second. His patience at the plate makes pitchers work hard, giving Cabrera and Castellanos a chance to see more pitches before they come up.

If he can post an on-base percentage around .350 (roughly what he averaged in the minor leagues) than he will give the big bats plenty of opportunities to drive him home.

Lastly, Candelario has already found success batting second. In 30 big league at-bats batting second, Candelario has hit .367/.500/.600. He’s posted a 21.1% walk rate and only a 13.2% strikeout rate. Obviously that sample size is miniscule and his .417 BABIP will come down, but it’s clear that the candy-man can comfortably contribute as the table-setter in this lineup.

Next: Staff Preseason Predictions

Even in a rebuilding year, the Tigers have plenty to watch for this season. One of the most exciting aspects of 2018 will be Candelario’s development. He has a long leash to prove himself in the Motor City, and could easily become the next great infielder in Tigers history.