Detroit Tigers: Midseason Awards

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TORONTO, ON – JUNE 30: Niko Goodrum #28 of the Detroit Tigers cannot come up with an infield single hit by Devon Travis #29 of the Toronto Blue Jays in the eighth inning during MLB game action at Rogers Centre on June 30, 2018 in Toronto, Canada. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images) /

Rookie of the Year – Niko Goodrum

The Detroit Tigers have had seven rookie-eligible players suit up for them this season. Of those seven, Niko Goodrum has clearly had the biggest impact on the Tigers.

Goodrum came to the Tigers as a minor league free agent after spending eight seasons in the Twins farm system. He played in 11 games with the Twins in 2017, but went just 1-for-17 with ten strikeouts.

Goodrum was brought in to compete for a utility infielder role against veterans Pete Kozma and Alexi Amarista, as well as fellow minor league free agent Ronny Rodriguez. Goodrum hit the ball well in spring and was awarded a roster spot. He has rewarded the Tigers with solid production with the stick and excellent defensive versatility.

Goodrum has appeared at 22 games at first base, 21 at second base, nine at third, five at shortstop, and 11 in the outfield. He has slashed .236/.317/.431 with seven home runs, six stolen bases and 27 runs scored. His seven home runs is tied with John Hicks for fourth on the team and his 10% walk-rate is third – behind Miguel Cabrera and Jeimer Candelario.

The disappointing performance from Dixon Machado (.206 with one HR and one SB) could allow Goodrum to slide into an everyday role at second base in the second half. Many expect Dawel Lugo to eventually play second base full-time, but he has not looked great at Triple-A this season.

Goodrum could emerge as a solid stop-gap at the keystone while the team waits for 2018 third round pick Kody Clemens to develop down on the farm.

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