Detroit Tigers trade Nick Quintana to the Reds for Tucker Barnhart

The Detroit Tigers were once again the first to strike early in the off-season, acquiring Tucker Barnhart in exchange for Nick Quintana.

Last season, the Detroit Tigers were quick to hire manager A.J. Hinch right after the World Series ended. Al Avila wasted no time once again being quick on the trigger as the Tigers made the first move of the off-season, acquiring Tucker Barnhart from the Cincinnati Reds in exchange for infielder prospect Nick Quintana.

Barnhart has won two Gold Gloves and Danielle Obal and Yooper both pointed out Barnhart’s prowess that would be a good fit in a Tigers uniform. For Al Avila, this is one of just a handful of trades he has given up prospects. Javier  Javier Betancourt and then later the player to be named later in Manny Pina to the Brewers in November 2015 was his first trade.

The left-handed-hitting Barnhart will more than likely split time with Eric Hasse.  Here is what Al Avila said in a team press release about the trade.

“Coming into this off-season, we knew that catcher was a priority position for us,” said Al Avila, Detroit Tigers Executive Vice President of Baseball Operations and General Manager. “During our strategy meetings over the last couple of weeks in Lakeland with my front office staff, Tucker’s name came up many times as an attractive option for our ballclub as someone who is a real plus defender, knows how to lead a pitching staff, and is a solid contributor from the batter’s box. After feeling interest from the Reds to make a deal, we moved quickly to make it happen and kick off our off-season transactions.”

For Nick Quintana, who was the 2nd round draft pick in 2018 out of Arizona, this gives him an opportunity to start over in a new organization. Injuries have plagued the infielder, who spent 2021 in Low-A Lakeland.

As far as Barnhart, he is excited to have a new start in Detroit.

“While it’s bittersweet to be leaving the organization that drafted me, I couldn’t be happier to join the Tigers,” said Barnhart. “This is an exciting time for a team that’s undergone such a big transformation over the last few years. A.J. is one of the best managers in all of baseball, and I’m looking forward to working with him, the coaching staff, and other teammates to bring the playoffs and a World Series Championship back to the Motor City.”