Detroit Tigers: 5 offseason tasks that need to be accomplished

Getting a Shortstop

Unlike first base, the Detroit Tigers actually have a lot of middle infield prospects in the minor leagues. Again, very few of them are ready for the major leagues. With veteran Jose Iglesias set to hit free agency at the end of this season, the team needs to decide how they want to handle one of the most important positions on the diamond in 2019.

Obviously one option would be to re-sign Iglesias. With a limited shortstop market, it’s possible the Tigers could get him back on an affordable one or two-year contract. Iglesias is going to have a hard time finding a starting job on the open market, and Detroit may be able to get him back and consider flipping him at the deadline if a team presents themselves with a need at shortstop.

Internally, the team has Goodrum, Rodriguez, Lugo and Dixon Machado all capable of playing shortstop. One of them, likely Goodrum or Lugo, will need to be the regular second baseman. Rodriguez and Machado have not hit exceptionally well this season, and neither look like future big league regulars. They could certainly fill in for a year if needed, but Detroit will have some extra money to play with this offseason (thanks Victor) and might as well make sure they have someone who is capable of playing short at the position.

Plus, if they sign a veteran and they play well – they could deal them for more prospects at the trade deadline. By that point it’s possible Sergio Alcantara or Willi Castro will be ready for big league action.

A few free agent names to keep an eye on (besides Iglesias): Adeiny Hechavarria, Jordy Mercer, Freddy Galvis and Eduardo Escobar.