Detroit Tigers: 3 free agent shortstop options they could pursue

Jose Iglesias

The first option is the simplest: bring Jose Iglesias back. General manager Al Avila made it clear they don’t envision Iglesias as a part of the team’s future, and that is why no contract extension conversations took place during the season. However, after seeing the ghastly performances from Ronny Rodriguez and Dixon Machado last season, it is clear the team needs a stopgap shortstop for at least another year – maybe two.

Of course, Iggy may want to spread his wings and find himself on a team that isn’t headed for another 90 loss season. The problem is that most, actually all, contending teams are pretty darn set at the shortstop spot. Iggy would have to settle for a utility infielder role on a contending team. While I have no doubt that he would excel in that role, teams are not going to want to pay a light-hitting utility infielder much, even if he possesses one of the best gloves on planet earth.

As such, Iggy’s best chance to earn significant playing time and get paid as a starter might be by staying in Detroit.

For the Tigers, brining Iggy back gives them someone they are familiar with at a key position, while affording them the opportunity to let younger shortstop options like Willi Castro and Sergio Alcantara continue to develop. If one of them is ready by midseason, the Tigers can shop Iggy once again and see if they can get a prospect or two back. If not, they can play this same game again at the end of the season.