MLB · 11 months ago

7 Players Detroit Tigers Should Target to Return to 2025 MLB Playoffs

Sportsgrid Staff

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Strengthen the Starting Rotation
The Tigers showed promise in 2024 but faced challenges with their pitching depth. Tarik Skubal emerged as a dependable ace with a 2.37 ERA, but the rotation lacked consistency behind him. Injuries plagued key arms like Casey Mize and Reese Olson, while others underperformed. To compete in 2025, the Tigers must add another top-tier starter to solidify the rotation.

A reliable veteran like Nick Pivetta, who posted solid strikeout numbers in 2023, could fill this need without breaking the bank. Walker Buehler is another intriguing option if Detroit can help him regain his pre-injury form. Adding this depth will relieve pressure on prospects like Jackson Jobe and give the Tigers a chance to thrive in a competitive AL Central.
Find a Solution at Shortstop
The Javier Báez experiment has not worked out, with his .221/.286/.346 slash line and 43 wRC+ in 2024, marking a continued decline. While Scott Harris has expressed faith in Báez, it’s clear the Tigers need an upgrade at shortstop. Trey Sweeney showed promise as a capable fill-in, but the Tigers should explore other options.

Free agent Ha-Seong Kim, who posted a 120 wRC+ in 2024, could provide both offensive and defensive stability. Even if Báez remains on the roster, Detroit needs a backup plan in place to avoid another offensive slump at this key position in 2025.

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Add a Right-Handed Power Bat
The Tigers’ lineup is lefty-heavy, and they need a right-handed bat to balance it out. Anthony Santander, who belted 44 home runs in 2024, is an ideal target to provide power from the right side of the plate. As a switch-hitter, Santander would add versatility to a lineup that struggled to produce against left-handed pitching.

If Santander is too costly, a lower-risk option like Tyler O'Neill, who has shown power potential, could also fit. A right-handed bat will help the Tigers diversify their offense and add much-needed firepower for the 2025 playoff push.

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Bolster the Bullpen with a Proven Closer
Detroit’s bullpen was heroic down the stretch in 2024, but it lacks a true closer who can consistently shut down games. Jason Foley has filled in admirably, but his 20% strikeout rate isn’t ideal for high-leverage situations. The Tigers need to pursue a closer with more swing-and-miss stuff to give them a reliable ninth-inning option.

Free agency offers limited options, but taking a chance on a veteran reliever or making a trade could bring in the necessary firepower. Adding a high-leverage arm would not only give the bullpen a boost but also move Foley back to a more comfortable middle-relief role.

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Upgrade the Corner Infield Spots
Third base has been a weak spot for the Tigers, and Spencer Torkelson’s inconsistency at first base adds to the concern. Despite hitting 31 home runs, Torkelson’s .221 average and 95 wRC+ in 2024 leave room for improvement. The Tigers need to target a proven bat at one of these positions. Christian Walker, who hit 33 home runs in 2024, could be a cost-effective option to add power and stability at first base.

Alternatively, a trade for someone like Alec Bohm, who posted a solid .280 average with the Phillies, could fill the third base hole. The Tigers need a corner infielder who can produce offensively and defensively if they hope to make a serious postseason push.

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Strengthen the Starting Rotation
The Tigers showed promise in 2024 but faced challenges with their pitching depth. Tarik Skubal emerged as a dependable ace with a 2.37 ERA, but the rotation lacked consistency behind him. Injuries plagued key arms like Casey Mize and Reese Olson, while others underperformed. To compete in 2025, the Tigers must add another top-tier starter to solidify the rotation.

A reliable veteran like Nick Pivetta, who posted solid strikeout numbers in 2023, could fill this need without breaking the bank. Walker Buehler is another intriguing option if Detroit can help him regain his pre-injury form. Adding this depth will relieve pressure on prospects like Jackson Jobe and give the Tigers a chance to thrive in a competitive AL Central.
Find a Solution at Shortstop
The Javier Báez experiment has not worked out, with his .221/.286/.346 slash line and 43 wRC+ in 2024, marking a continued decline. While Scott Harris has expressed faith in Báez, it’s clear the Tigers need an upgrade at shortstop. Trey Sweeney showed promise as a capable fill-in, but the Tigers should explore other options.

Free agent Ha-Seong Kim, who posted a 120 wRC+ in 2024, could provide both offensive and defensive stability. Even if Báez remains on the roster, Detroit needs a backup plan in place to avoid another offensive slump at this key position in 2025.

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7 Players Detroit Tigers Should Target to Return to 2025 MLB Playoffs

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