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Detroit Tigers: Jonathan Schoop stays in Detroit, signs 2-year-extension

By Roger Castillo

Jul 21, 2021; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Tigers center fielder Akil Baddoo (60) receives congratulations from second baseman Jonathan Schoop (7) after he hit a home run in the fifth inning against the Texas Rangers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 21, 2021; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Tigers center fielder Akil Baddoo (60) receives congratulations from second baseman Jonathan Schoop (7) after he hit a home run in the fifth inning against the Texas Rangers at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Detroit Tigers heard the demands of the fans and made a smart decision, signing Jonathan Schoop to a two-year contract extension.

Fans often wonder if their demands are heard and in this case, the Detroit Tigers heard what they wanted loud and clear.  Throughout the trade deadline, based on comments on social media, the demand was clear;  Give Jonathan Schoop a contract extension. 

The Detroit Tigers follow through and gave him two years at $15 million dollars with an opt-out after 2022, according to Jon Heyman of MLB.com

The optimism among the Detroit Tigers fanbase continues to grow

The pattern the last several seasons was to trade whatever name the Tigers could and get prospect talent in return. In this case, Schoop made it clear he has enjoyed his time in Detroit.

When speaking to the press, Schoop thanked manager AJ Hinch for keeping the faith with him after his early-season struggles.

Since May 8th, Schoop has put up a wRC+ of 117 and is second on the team in WAR with a 2.6. His ability to place first base, a position he never has played before, has made him much more valuable.

This was an important first step for the 2022 off-season.

For the Detroit Tigers, having Jonathan Schoop resigned was the most important move that General Manager Al Avila could have done for three reasons.

  1. With Schoop resigning, the Tigers can focus on signing a shortstop and shoring up the rotation.
  2. The potential tetchy labor talks between the MLB Players Association and owners. Schoop under contract and on the 40-man roster provides security in a free-agent market that was rather weak at second base.
  3. The Tigers farm system does not have a replacement.  Second baseman Kody Clemens has been hitting better as of late but he also has been playing in the outfield and could be used as a utility player. But beyond that, there is no one at the moment that could answer the call that has the type of experience and ability Schoop has.

Credit to Manager AJ Hinch and the front office for recognizing how valuable Schoop has been not only for his stats but how much of a good clubhouse presence he has been.

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