AL AVILA

The Detroit Tigers announced Wednesday that they had signed shortstop Javier Baez to a six-year contract. “This is a turning point, undoubtedly,” Tigers owner Christopher Ilitch said in a quickly arranged Zoom press conference. #DetroitRoots pic.twitter.com/GmA0eTsGGW — Detroit Tigers (@tigers) December 1, 2021Baez’s contract has an opt-out after the second year and a limited no-trade clause. pic.twitter.com/6BtrvkH9Oq — Detroit Tigers (@tigers) December 1, 2021TIGERS’ 40-MAN ROSTER (38)Left-handed pitchers (6): Tyler Alexander, Miguel Del Pozo, Eduardo Rodriguez, Tarik Skubal, Gregory Soto, Joey Wentz. Dec. 1: Signed shortstop Javier Baez to a six-year contract.

The Detroit Tigers have reportedly signed free agent shortstop Javier Baez to a six-year deal.

Everybody knows the Detroit Tigers aren’t done signing free agents this offseason, but with many of the top targets signing this week, when is the time to strike?

And there’s no bigger question than the Tigers’ next shortstop. “Well, we’re actively looking for a shortstop -- sure,” said Tigers general manager Al Avila with a bit of exasperation on Monday. “One big splash does not win you the offseason.”The collective bargaining agreement between Major League Baseball and its players expires in eight days and a lockout is widely expected. “I don’t think the quote-unquote looming deadline is going to establish the market. You see some guys signing a little bit earlier, and there’s going to be some guys that are going to wait a little bit longer.

The Detroit Tigers had studied Eduardo Rodriguez’s track record as a pitcher, but general manager Al Avila and manager A.J. But the Tigers left convinced that they were ready to make Rodriguez the first. “We weren’t (leaving) that restaurant without landing him.”The Tigers signed Rodriguez to a five-year, $77 million contract that includes a player opt-out after the second year. With his wife, two children and niece in the audience, Rodriguez pronounced it one of the happiest days of his life. He said he’s already chatted with Cabrera about Detroit and the Tigers.

The Detroit Tigers have reportedly reached a 5-year deal with former Boston Red Sox pitcher Eduardo Rodriguez, according to multiple reports.

The deadline for MLB teams to extend qualifying offers to prospective free agents passed this weekend, and those decisions will have an impact on the Detroit Tigers as they hurtle toward an active offseason.

Publicly the Tigers have confirmed only two other positions on their winter wish list: Shortstop and starting pitcher. These are players that Tigers general manager Al Avila should call right now, before the hot stove gets too warm. But at least he played outstanding defense at three different infield spots, which would have helped the Tigers in 2021. Also, remember that there will be more free agents hitting the market later this month after being non-tendered by their old club. Some of those players will be younger and potentially more attractive than traditional free agents, so stay tuned.

In other professional sports, the free-agency period arrives with a barrage of news and tweets and deal-making on the first day players are eligible to sign. Those that remain in the final couple of weeks before the start of spring training take whatever they can get. “(Wednesday) was obviously the first day you can go out and talk to agents about players that you’re interested in,” Avila said. Catchers (4): Tucker Barnhart, Dustin Garneau, Grayson Greiner, Eric Haase. TIGERS’ OFFSEASON ADDITIONSNov. 3: Acquired catcher Tucker Barnhart from the Cincinnati Reds for minor-league infielder Nick Quintana.

Hinch’s phone rang and Tigers general manager Al Avila was on the other end. “I said, ‘Hello.’ He said, ‘A.J., this is Al, and I’d like you to get on a plane tomorrow,” Hinch remembered. To make the playoffs, the Tigers will have to improve by about a dozen games in 2022, which is no small task. Hinch understands the media. “If the Tigers’ organization does a good job, we’re going to reestablish ourselves as a winning franchise and develop a winning culture.

This will be the first meaningful offseason for the Detroit Tigers in half a decade, as the team hopes to take another leap from surprisingly competitive to legitimate playoff contender.

For as critical as this offseason is for the Detroit Tigers, there’s an impressive degree of clarity about what we can expect to happen. Riley Greene prepares for batting practice at the Detroit Tigers facility in Lakeland, Fla., on February 24, 2021. Are the Tigers going all-in on Tork and Greene or will there be a Plan B? Detroit Tigers pitcher Casey Mize (12) adjusts his sleeve during their MLB game against the Los Angeles Angels at Comerica Park in Detroit, on Tuesday, August 17, 2021. The Tigers plan to bolster the pitching ranks with one, two or maybe even three free-agent starters.

The Tigers confirmed Wednesday that the two top prospects will play in the Arizona Fall League. An Opening Day roster spot won’t be won or lost in a few weeks worth of exhibition games in front of empty stadiums in Arizona. If the Tigers had wanted to avoid such a trap, they could have simply left them in Double-A Erie. * The Tigers have openings or potential openings at first base (Tork’s position) and the outfield (Greene’s territory). Avila said both players will be in the big leagues in the “not-too-distant future.” That doesn’t necessarily mean Opening Day, but Avila didn’t slam the door on the idea.

DETROIT -- Detroit Tigers general manager Al Avila referred Tuesday to a “decision looming” involving longtime starting pitcher Matthew Boyd, but suggested that the decision might belong as much to Boyd as to the Tigers. Here’s the situation:The Tigers must decide by Dec. 2 whether to tender Boyd a contract for 2022. If they do so, the Tigers are committed to negotiating a contract with Boyd and settling it through arbitration if necessary. “I’m all on board with Matt Boyd. But as a person and a player, Matt Boyd is a winner.”The Tigers have penciled in Casey Mize, Tarik Skubal and probably Matt Manning for the rotation.

Avila said that the Tigers would focus on acquiring one or more starting pitchers; a shortstop; and, potentially, a catcher. But with serious money to spend this winter -- no one’s sure quite how much -- the Tigers could be pursuing a higher-caliber player. “There’s no fear factor in signing a big contract, but at the same time we’re not looking at it as we have to make a big splash,” Avila said. “That’s a pretty big splash,” Hinch said. The last major contract doled out by the Tigers -- a five-year, $110 million deal for Jordan Zimmermann -- was a disaster.

DETROIT -- Detroit Tigers general manager Al Avila announced several changes to the club’s front office on Tuesday, promoting two executives, demoting a third and changing the responsibilities of another. * Dave Littlefield, who served as VP of player development, will now be a special assignment scout. Kenny Graham, who was the club’s director of player development, will take over Littlefield’s duties on an interim basis. Tigers are expected to look outside their organization for next player development director, and have started reaching out to clubs for potential interviews. TIGERS FRONT OFFICE LEADERSHIPExecutive vice president and GM: Al AvilaVice president/assistant GM: David Chadd, Sam Menzin, Jay SartoriVice president, player personnel: Scott BreamVice president, player development: Kenny Graham (interim)

I think the fact that he’s adapted to first base -- not only with his skills, but also his team-first approach -- has been great,” Hinch said. In that sense, it’s basically a one-year extension with a one-year player option. Until this season, Schoop had never played a single inning at first base, which is where he’s spent most of 2021. In any case, extending Schoop has made the winter considerably easier for Avila and the Tigers. With Schoop’s versatility, the only thing the Tigers have to do to complete the infield is add a shortstop.

Family has been an important part of his decade-long path to the big leagues. Haase and the Tigers open a three-game series in Cleveland this weekend, but Progressive Field won’t rekindle too many memories. He’s made the most of his first real opportunity in the big leagues, hitting a team-high 18 home runs in just 241 plate appearances. Today the Haase kids are regulars in the seats behind the plate at Comerica Park. As for his yard work, like a typical suburban dad, Haase said it’s no burden.

DETROIT -- Let’s cut to the chase: Will the Detroit Tigers be willing to open their checkbook in 2021? Tigers owner Christopher Ilitch was posed the question after a ceremonial groundbreaking event to mark the start of renovations at Historic Hamtramck Stadium. “(General manager Al Avila) and his team are very focused on continuing to improve our team,” Ilitch said. “Al has been the architect of our vision,” Ilitch said. “I think the future of the Detroit Tigers is very bright with A.J.

DETROIT -- Will we look back at Daniel Norris as the last sell-off of the Detroit Tigers’ rebuilding era? Regardless, the Tigers hope that this time next summer they’ll be focused on acquiring players rather than selling them. Nothing precludes the Tigers from signing Norris again this winter (if they so choose). Schoop did well for the Tigers in the shortened 2020 season, when he made a prorated portion of $6.1 million. “When you’re not a team that’s acquiring, it’s not quite as fun,” Hinch said of the annual trade deadline.

DETROIT -- Instead of preparing for a game on Friday night, Daniel Norris was saying his goodbyes, packing up his locker and preparing to start a new adventure with a new team. He’ll fly to Atlanta to meet his new team Saturday morning and immediately be thrown into the thick of a pennant race. Norris shed tears in his meeting with general manager Al Avila and was emotional in his talk with reporters. Norris said he hopes his work ethic left an imprint during his time in Detroit. “I’m anxious to get going and putting on that uniform and seeing if we can win a World Series,” Norris said.

The Detroit Tigers have traded reliever Daniel Norris to the Milwaukee Brewers for pitching prospect Reese Olson.

The MLB trade deadline is just hours away, and it’s already been an incredibly active week around the league.

DETROIT -- Detroit Tigers infielder Jonathan Schoop was hugging his ex-teammates on the Baltimore Orioles before Thursday night’s game. If you see him hugging his current teammates during the game, you’ll know he’s been traded. The MLB trade deadline is Friday at 4 p.m., which means this could be Schoop’s last game in a Tigers’ uniform. Schoop, 29, is in the midst of a great season and will be a free agent this winter. “I think we’ve got good things going on and a good group of guys,” Schoop said.

Can you help us settle a little newsroom debate? Which Detroit sports team will have the best winning percentage next season?

To match the ignominy of 2019, the Tigers would have to finish the season by losing 63 consecutive games. But it would make the Tigers a worse team at a time when they’re playing really well. Many feared that things would get worse as the season went on, as injuries piled up and attrition took its toll. For the first time in years, there’s a sense that things are looking up for the Tigers. For the first time in years, maybe this is a time to stand pat at the trade deadline, rather than sell.

DETROIT -- The MLB trade deadline is approaching at the end of the month, but the Detroit Tigers have no imminent deals in the works. “We’re at a point where we don’t have to do that any longer,” Tigers general manager Al Avila said in a meeting with reporters Tuesday at Comerica Park. The Tigers have been in “sell mode” in each of the last four seasons. Some of their deadline deals have been blockbusters (Justin Verlander) while others have been smaller deals to unload veteran contracts (outfielder Cameron Maybin last season). “We have no pressure at all to make any trades,” Avila said.

The Detroit Tigers selected Oklahoma prep pitcher Jackson Jobe with the No. 3 overall pick in the MLB Draft on Sunday night. The Tigers had been closely linked to Jobe for months, so the move wasn’t an overwhelming surprise. With the third pick in the 2021 #MLBDraft, the Detroit Tigers select RHP Jackson Jobe. pic.twitter.com/Aroy8Eoy1y — Detroit Tigers (@tigers) July 11, 2021Tigers’ recent draft picks2020: 1B/3B Spencer Torkelson, Arizona State (No.

Don’t take for granted that the Detroit Tigers will move players on expiring contracts before the July 31 trade deadline. If they do, expect general manager Al Avila to drive a hard bargain. He also sent a message to fans that, even with the Tigers out of the playoff race, there wouldn’t be a summer tear-down. “If some team wants to come and offer Al something, I’m sure he’ll listen and he’ll be fair about it,” Hinch said. “But we’re not going to give away our players to a closer-to-contending team than people see us to be.”

DETROIT -- When the Detroit Tigers finally return to the playoffs, how many players on the current team will still be here? Tigers general manager Al Avila, speaking to reporters on Friday, said the first wave -- Casey Mize, Tarik Skubal and others -- has arrived, while the second wave -- Riley Greene, Spencer Torkelson and others -- is nearing. “But there’s plenty of guys on this team that you can say there’s a nucleus of guys to build around,” Avila said. We’re going to define “nucleus” fairly broadly to describe players the Tigers would like to be back in 2022 and maybe beyond. Whether that day arrives in 2022 depends on how good the Tigers are -- and how good they aspire to be.

DETROIT -- There are 50 days until the Major League trade deadline, and Detroit Tigers general manager Al Avila, as always, will be listening. The Tigers have made at least one trade at the deadline in each of the last four seasons. Of course, the Tigers would accept any reasonable offer for, say, Jonathan Schoop, a veteran on a one-year deal. As I’ve told those other GMs, what we’re trying to do is make our team better. “I think, league-wide, everybody is really, really scared of what’s going to happen as we move deeper into the season with their pitching,” Avila said.

On this week’s Michigan Matters. Motor Racing returns to Belle Isle as the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix gears up. And Detroit Tiger Legend Kirk Gibson talks about his toughest foe these days—his battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

On this week’s Michigan Matters. Motor Racing returns to Belle Isle as the Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix gears up. And Detroit Tiger Legend Kirk Gibson talks about his toughest foe these days—his battle with Parkinson’s Disease.

So as far as starting pitching, we’ve done a marvelous job. When our starting pitching goes six innings and keeps us in the game, you have a chance to win every single game. We feel good with Rogers and Haase behind the play from a defensive perspective (at catcher). He’s really the full package that you would want in the middle of your lineup, a well-rounded player, an All-Star caliber type guy. We thought we drafted a guy where, yes, he’s going to have home run power, but he’s also going to hit for average, he’s going to have a good on-base percentage.

DETROIT -- Detroit Tigers general manager Al Avila said he’s been excited by the progress made by the club’s starting pitchers, but expected better results from the struggling bullpen. “We do feel good about the progress,” Avila said Wednesday during a virtual meeting of the Detroit Economic Club. “We don’t feel good about the wins and losses.”The Tigers (18-30) are currently in a four-game losing streak after winning 9 of 11. Avila said he thinks the Tigers will get better as the year goes on as manager A.J. “I wouldn’t say 100 percent of all managers and GMs (like it), but I think the majority do,” Avila said.

Detroit Tigers play the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park on May 6, 2021, behind Casey Mize. TV: Bally Sports Detroit. Radio: 97.1 FM The Ticket.

How can anyone watch the Detroit Tigers right now? They are a complete and utter disaster.

In fact, I’m giving you $50 million that you can spend exclusively on free agents.”Really, that’s not so farfetched. Unlike the real Tigers, who invested about 30 percent of their budget on starting pitching, I’m going to sign only one starter, and I’m going to steal the real Tigers’ idea. Even so, I think the bullpen is perhaps the least-discussed potential weakness on the 2021 Tigers, and I’m going to try give manager A.J. I am going to have an all-Curacao middle infield by signing Jonathan Schoop ($4.5 million) and Andrelton Simmons ($10.5 million). Have fun in the Dominican Republic this winter!”The Tigers signed two outfielders in real life and I’m going to sign two outfielders as well.

There’s still more than a week until Opening Day, and some of the roster decisions can wait until the last minute. “There are all sorts of roster construction conversations going on,” said Tigers manager A.J. The challenge of getting all the Tigers’ young starting pitchers on the roster could squeeze out someone like Tyler Alexander. “I remember being sent down the last day of spring training. “It’s not going to be a great week for everybody.

DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers have signed veteran starting pitcher Julio Teheran to a minor league deal with an invite to spring training, according to multiple reports. Teheran opted for an NRI deal with the Tigers over a guaranteed deal elsewhere because he got a base of $3M plus $1M in games started incentives. The guaranteed deal was a low base with minimal upside. Teheran is banking on his ability to make the team out of spring training and stick in the rotation. Detroit’s pitchers and catchers reported to spring training in Lakeland earlier this week as they look forward to their first season under manager A.J.

Hinch doesn’t sound so sure. Or at least he doesn’t want his players to think he’s going to Avila’s office, pounding on the table and demanding that his boss do something to bolster the Detroit Tigers’ pitching staff. “I’m not going to look my players in the face or be quoted as saying that we need more pitching,” Hinch said. That’s good question, and it’s a hypothetical one that Hinch doesn’t have to worry about just yet. He wants young pitchers focused on getting better and competing rather than counting their innings.

Seattle Mariners starting pitcher Taijuan Walker throws against the Los Angeles Dodgers in a baseball game Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2020, in Seattle. Detroit Tigers pitcher Anibal Sanchez (19). Minnesota Twins pitcher Homer Bailey throws against the Detroit Tigers in the first inning of a baseball game Tuesday, Sept. 22, 2020, in Minneapolis. He endured a miserable 2020 season that coincided with a loss of velocity. Arizona Diamondbacks starting pitcher Mike Leake throws against the St. Louis Cardinals during the first inning of a baseball game, Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2019, in Phoenix.

When the Detroit Tigers parted ways with James McCann after the 2018 season it was both understandable and relatively uncontroversial. TIGERS IN 2021: This is the ninth in a series of profiles on the Detroit Tigers’ organizational depth heading into the 2021 season. CATCHERS IN THE SYSTEMOn the 40-man roster: Wilson Ramos, Grayson Greiner, Jake Rogers. Detroit Tigers catchers Grayson Greiner, left, and Jake Rogers talk during their Summer Training 2020 at Comerica Park in Detroit, on Friday, July 3, 2020. Detroit Tigers catcher James McCann takes the field before a baseball game against the Minnesota Twins in Detroit, Monday, Sept. 17, 2018.

Detroit Tigers general manager Al Avila had a Monday staff meeting with new coaches and couldn’t help but leave with a smile on his face. “All these guys -- the pitching coaches and the hitting coaches, the infield and outfield coaches -- they’ve already been watching video. They’ve done the analytical work, they’ve done the video work. “We’ve done a ton of homework and I feel we’re as prepared as any staff in baseball, even though we’re new,” he said. HinchBench coach: George LombardPitching coach: Chris FetterAssistant pitching coach: Juan NievesHitting coach: Scott CoolbaughAssistant hitting coach: Jose Cruz Jr.First base coach: Ramon SantiagoThird base coach: Chip HaleQuality control coach: Josh PaulSantiago and Paul are holdovers from Ron Gardenhire’s 2020 staff.

LAKELAND, Fla. -- Only about 2,000 fans will be allowed to watch each game at Publix Field at Joker Marchant Stadium this spring. But sales have been brisk, which gives Detroit Tigers general manager Al Avila hope that better times are on the horizon. “Let me tell you, the interest in coming back to the game is tremendous,” Avila said. “Hopefully as things move along into the summer, it will get loosened up and we’ll be able to add more fans. 1 priority is safety of the fans and safety of the players as we move forward.

LAKELAND, Fla. -- Detroit Tigers left-handed pitching prospect Joey Wentz will be back on the field with his teammates on Wednesday, 11 months after underdoing Tommy John surgery. Wentz, 23, is “making tremendous progress,” according to Tigers general manager Al Avila. “I’m just excited that he’s making great progress,” Avila said. I’m just excited that he’s making good progress and am hoping for the best there.”The Tigers acquired Wentz and outfielder Travis Demeritte from the Atlanta Braves in exchange for reliever Shane Greene in 2019. He was ranked the Tigers’ eighth-best prospect on MLB Pipeline.

Miguel Cabrera has been working on ground balls at first base, posting the videos on social media for everyone to see. If he does, he does have the potential to continue to be a productive player.”After looking a bit puffy in 2019, Cabrera came to spring training in excellent shape last February. If anything, he’s probably intensified the workout routine.”The Tigers open spring training with pitcher-catcher workouts on Wednesday. “Last year in spring training, (Cabrera) looked really good,” Avila said. I expect him to come into spring training 100 percent ready to go.

General manager Al Avila said the Tigers were still looking for pitching, probably a starter, on a Major League or minor-league deal. “We’re definitely looking for more pitching as we speak,” Avila said. Avila said the Tigers have discussed using a six-man rotation in 2021 as one strategy to handle the transition from a 60-game to 162-game season. Hinch do with so much pitching, especially if the Tigers add one more arm to the mix in the coming days? “You might see more players being brought up and optioned as you need fresh arms from week to week,” Avila said.

The Detroit Tigers officially confirmed the signing of outfielder Nomar Mazara on Friday night, adding some left-handed pop to new manager A.J. pic.twitter.com/i33G6TY1BK — Detroit Tigers (@tigers) February 12, 2021TIGERS’ 40-MAN ROSTER (40)Left-handed pitchers (6): Tyler Alexander, Matthew Boyd, Daniel Norris, Tarik Skubal, Gregory Soto, Joey Wentz. Outfielders (8): Akil Baddoo, Daz Cameron, Robbie Grossman, Derek Hill, JaCoby Jones, Nomar Mazara, Victor Reyes, Christin Stewart. Feb. 12: Formally announced signing of outfielder Nomar Mazara. TIGERS’ FREE-AGENT SIGNINGSMajor League (5): RHP Jose Urena, OF Robbie Grossman, C Wilson Ramos, IF Jonathan Schoop, OF Nomar Mazara.

DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers have reportedly signed former top 15 outfield prospect Nomar Mazara to a one-year major league deal. Mazara gets $1.75M plus incentives on Tigers MLB deal — Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) February 12, 2021In five seasons since debuting as a 20-year-old in 2016, Mazara has been a very average MLB hitter, slashing .258/.318/.426 (.744 OPS). AdLast season, Mazara got just 149 plate appearances with the Chicago White Sox, partly because of injuries and partly because of roster depth in Chicago. Mazara is the fourth offensive signing the Tigers have made at the MLB level this offseason. AdDetroit also signed Renato Nunez and Greg Garcia to minor league deals, with invitations to MLB spring training.

A year ago we asked which of the Tigers’ young center field prospects would step up in 2020. TIGERS IN 2021: This is the fourth in a series of profiles on the Detroit Tigers’ organizational depth heading into the 2021 season. (Photo courtesy Minnesota Twins)Brace HemmelgarnOn the 40-man roster: Akil Baddoo, JaCoby Jones, Derek Hill. Detroit Tigers outfielder JaCoby Jones (21) looks on during their summer training camp at Comerica Park in Detroit, on Tuesday, July 7, 2020. The Tigers and other MLB teams are working out in effort to start their 2020 season in late July.

DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers made a trio of free agent signings over the last month to fill holes in the everyday lineup, but there are still many questions about the starting nine. Cron at first base, Schoop at second base, Jeimer Candelario at third base and Niko Goodrum at shortstop. AdOf his 50 games started last season, Reyes hit leadoff in 34 of them. Isaac Paredes #19 of the Detroit Tigers bats during the Detroit Tigers Summer Workouts at Comerica Park on July 18, 2020 in Detroit, Michigan. Whether that means he’ll get chances at first base, third base or elsewhere remains to be seen.

The Detroit Tigers formally announced the signing of veteran catcher Wilson Ramos on Friday. Catchers (3): Grayson Greiner, Wilson Ramos, Jake Rogers. Jan. 29: Formally announced signing of catcher Wilson Ramos. Jan. 29: Designated infielder Sergio Alcantara for assignment. TIGERS’ FREE-AGENT SIGNINGSMajor League (3): RHP Jose Urena, OF Robbie Grossman, C Wilson Ramos.

Alex Avila has found a new home with the Washington Nationals. The former Detroit Tigers catcher and son of Tigers general manager Al Avila agreed to a one-year deal with the Nats, according to The Athletic. Avila played for the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2018 and 2019 and the Minnesota Twins in 2020. The Tigers recently signed veteran catcher Wilson Ramos to a one-year deal, forgoing the possibility of another reunion with Avila. Avila is expected to serve as backup for starter Yan Gomes in Washington.

Wilson Ramos #40 of the New York Mets looks on during the eighth inning against the Atlanta Braves at Citi Field on September 18, 2020 in the Queens borough of New York City. DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers have reportedly agreed to a one-year deal with free agent catcher Wilson Ramos. Wilson Ramos 1 year - 2 MM with Detroit Tigers. Wilson Ramos #40 of the New York Mets hits during the fifth inning against the Atlanta Braves at Citi Field on September 18, 2020 in the Queens borough of New York City. (2020 Getty Images)For his career, Ramos owns a .755 OPS with 128 home runs and 146 doubles in 946 career games.

Hinch, in a conference call with reporters on Tuesday, made clear that he would like to have another catcher. Former Tiger Alex Avila might be the best catcher left on the market in the Tigers’ price range. It doesn’t mean he can’t make our team as an everyday third baseman, but why not have multiple ways to make our team?” Hinch said. Of course, if the Tigers add a couple of veteran free agents, that door would close, at least temporarily. “I’m not afraid of the young players, I’m not afraid of their growth.

Detroit Tigers general manager Al Avila said Thursday that he was tentatively planning to have the 20-year-old outfield prospect start the season in Double-A Erie. But the Tigers evidently feel confident in letting him skip that level after he spent the 2020 season working out with older players at the club’s alternate site in Toledo. Knowing that he can play both, knowing that Torkelson can play both is really an advantage to the organization. He knows if he keep his body intact, he will be able to play second base as well as third. “We also know he can play second and third, and if he’s needed to play the outfield I think he runs well enough that he can.

At the beginning of the offseason, the Detroit Tigers’ front office drew up a chart of possible free-agent pitchers. There were 52 who were ranked “pretty decently,” according to Tigers general manager Al Avila. With six weeks until the planned start of spring training, about 40 of those pitchers remain unsigned. “I think it’s been slower than most people anticipated.”The Tigers have signed one free-agent pitcher -- right-hander Jose Urena -- and Avila made it sound like another signing was likely. “So there’s still a lot of work to do between now and spring training, for sure.

It also offers hope that, at some point in 2021, baseball will return to normal, with real fans and everything. The original version said, ‘When will the season start?’ But you can’t have one without the other, so let’s start with the preseason. We can anticipate a repeat of the squabbling and public posturing that preceded the shortened 2020 season. The Tigers have signed two players so far this winter, which actually puts them ahead of the pack. But those boxes on the wish list might not be checked until closer to spring training, when prices drop and unsigned players start to get anxious.

Robbie Grossman #8 of the Oakland Athletics hits a home run against the Seattle Mariners in the first inning of their second game of a double header at RingCentral Coliseum on September 26, 2020 in Oakland, California. DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers have signed veteran free agent outfielder Robbie Grossman to a two-year deal, according to reports. Grossman spent the last two seasons with the Oakland Athletics after three years each with the Houston Astros and Minnesota Twins. Robbie Grossman’s 2-year, $10 million deal with the #Tigers is the largest by a free-agent outfielder in this painfully slow winter. Another night of Detroit sports: Tigers prospect, Pistons top draft pick both injuredGrossman has a career .730 OPS across 2,362 at-bats.

The Detroit Tigers have signed veteran outfielder Robbie Grossman to a two-year contract worth $10 million. Since embarking on their ongoing rebuilding process, the Tigers have signed only single-year free agents. Outfielders (8): Akil Baddoo, Daz Cameron, Travis Demeritte, Robbie Grossman, Derek Hill, JaCoby Jones, Victor Reyes, Christin Stewart. TIGERS’ OFFSEASON ADDITIONSNov. 20: Selected the contracts of left-handed pitcher Joey Wentz and right-handed pitchers Alex Faedo, Alex Lange and Matt Manning. Jan. 5: Signed outfielder Robbie Grossman.

So why did the Tigers let McCann go for nothing after the 2018 season? McCann was coming off an awful season and the Tigers were going nowhere fast. McCann was drafted by the Tigers in the second round out of the University of Arkansas in 2011. In 452 games with the Tigers, he hit .240/.288/.366 with 40 home runs, 58 doubles and eight triples. McCann had the best offensive season of his career in 2019 and followed it up with a solid short season in 2020.

More surprising was the way in which Avila has tried to dampen even the mildest expectations for the hot-stove season. If they don’t, there’s a risk that 2021 could look very much like 2019, when the Tigers hit rock-bottom and lost 114 games. But the COVID pandemic represented a lost year financially and developmentally for the Tigers and many other MLB teams. Rather than plow ahead as if nothing had happened, the Tigers appear to be resetting and realigning their plans for 2022. The trick is to get the most impact from those high-value years by aligning the deal with the team’s contention window.

Tigers general manager Al Avila said Friday there are no plans to “make a big splash” this winter, although the club was casting a “wide net” in its search for free agents. “I look at it as being disciplined this year and resisting an urge to really try to step up,” Avila said. Since the end of the 2020 season, Avila has spoken only broadly about the Tigers’ plans for the free-agent market. Will Candelario play first or third? Avila said he remains hopeful that things will improve by the summer, setting the stage for a normal 2022 season.

DETROIT – There’s a new batch of free agents this week after the non-tender deadline, and several of those players would be smart additions for the Detroit Tigers. If the Tigers are aggressive in free agency this offseason, they could find some bargains. Due to the financial losses teams experienced due to the shortened 2020 season and the COVID-19 pandemic, free agents might come at a bit of a discount ahead of 2021. READ: Detroit Tigers hire University of Michigan’s Chris Fetter as new pitching coachIn MLB’s last full season, Schwarber hit 38 home runs and 29 doubles while drawing 70 walks. Now 26, Dahl is coming off a dreadful 2020 season -- if you can even call it a season.

DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers tendered contracts to all nine of their arbitration-eligible players Wednesday, meaning they will all return for the 2021 season. READ: Detroit Tigers hire University of Michigan’s Chris Fetter as new pitching coachBy tendering contracts to these players, the Tigers will now negotiate salaries for the 2021 season. Last season, the Tigers won an arbitration hearing with Fulmer, who filed for $3.4 million but ultimately earned $2.8 million for the season. Detroit Tigers pitcher Michael Fulmer throws during an intrasquad baseball game, Wednesday, July 8, 2020, in Detroit. Jeimer Candelario #46 of the Detroit Tigers bats against the Chicago Cubs at Comerica Park on August 26, 2020 in Detroit, Michigan.

DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers have hired Chris Fetter, a “rising star” in the baseball coaching industry from the University of Michigan, to become their new pitching coach. Fetter replaces Rick Anderson, who was the pitching coach under Ron Gardenhire for a season and a half. The Detroit Tigers today announced Chris Fetter has been named the club’s Major League Pitching Coach. #DetroitRoots pic.twitter.com/afOKZfXnOw — Detroit Tigers (@tigers) November 6, 2020“We’re particularly excited for Chris’s transition to professional baseball," Tigers general manager Al Avila said. He was the top choice among a number of high-level executives in the #WhiteSox front office for their pitching coach job.

Hinch took over the Houston Astros, they were one year removed from three straight 100-loss seasons and hadn’t been to the playoffs in a long, long time. Tigers similaritiesIt’s almost stunning how much the current Tigers mirror the situation Hinch inherited in Houston. 3 overall pickThe only recent top draft pick for the Astros who debuted before Hinch arrived was Springer in 2014. Right before Hinch got to Houston, the team took a noticeable step forward by going 70-92 in 2014. They’ve also turned those struggles into high draft picks and now have money to spend.

FILE - In this Oct. 15, 2019, file photo, Houston Astros manager AJ Hinch (14) reaches for a ball before Game 3 of baseball's American League Championship Series against the New York Yankees in New York. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum, File)DETROIT – As he waited out his suspension this year, AJ Hinch knew he wanted to return to baseball. It was Detroit general manager Al Avila, telling Hinch to get on a plane. In January, Major League Baseball suspended Hinch and Astros GM Jeff Luhnow for the season and the Astros immediately fired both. Hinch is 570-452 as a major league manager.

DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers have hired former Houston Astros manager A.J. The Detroit Tigers today named A.J. pic.twitter.com/AHALJU1wGw — Detroit Tigers (@tigers) October 30, 2020“I’d like to thank Chris Ilitch and Al Avila for giving me a chance and the opportunity to get back in the dugout to lead this historic ball club,” Hinch said. When Hinch took over in Houston, the Astros were in a very similar situation to the current Tigers. is the best man for this job as we strive to bring a World Series Championship back to the city of Detroit.”Rebuild nearing end?

San Diego Padres pose for a photo after defeating the St. Louis Cardinals 4-0 in Game 3 of a National League wild-card baseball series Friday, Oct. 2, 2020, in San Diego. First-year San Diego manager Jayce Tingler used nine pitchers, the most employed in a nine-inning shutout in any big league game since 1901. Next up is the Division Series, and all four matchups are intradivision -- AL West vs. NL West and AL East vs. NL East. New York hasn’t visited the San Diego ballpark since 2016. Detroit general manager Al Avila says the team isn’t ruling out the possibility of hiring Hinch or Cora for its managerial vacancy.

DETROIT – Tigers general manager Al Avila said Friday that Detroit is not ruling out the possibility of hiring A.J. Hinch or Alex Cora for its manager vacancy. Hinch and Cora were suspended through the 2020 postseason for their roles in the Houston Astros' sign-stealing scandal. The Astros fired Hinch and general manager Jeff Luhnow on Jan. 13 and Cora lost his job managing the Boston Red Sox the following day.. Cora spent the 2017 season as bench coach on Hinch's staff with Houston. Avila said it is important that the next manager be able to help with talent evaluation, since there are important decisions to make throughout the roster.

DETROIT – Going into 2021, the Detroit Tigers have exciting prospects, money to spend and a handful of solid players on their roster. Here are three free agents they could add to three prospects and three familiar faces to create a starting lineup capable of competing next season. (2020 Getty Images)If the Tigers could only pursue one free agent this offseason, it should be J.T. If the Tigers field this type of lineup, he shouldn’t be guaranteed his old spot in the No. Suggested lineupIf the Tigers made these three signings and called up Greene, here’s what the theoretical lineup could look like on Opening Day:D.J.

DETROIT – Ron Gardenhire announced Saturday he was retiring as the Tigers' manager, effective immediately. Gardenhire worked 16 years in Major League management, spending the last three seasons with the Tigers. Prior to Detroit, Gardenhire worked as a bench coach for the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2017 and managed the Minnesota Twins from 2002-2014. “On behalf of all of us with the Detroit Tigers, congratulations to Ron Gardenhire on a tremendous managerial career,” said Detroit Tigers Chairman and CEO Christopher Ilitch. MORE: Detroit Tigers news

A Comerica Park videoboard displays a thank you message to Detroit Tigers manager Ron Gardenhire, who announced his retirement prior to a baseball game against the Cleveland Indians, Saturday, Sept. 19, 2020, in Detroit. This year was taking more of a toll on the 62-year-old Detroit Tigers manager than he'd necessarily let on. General manager Al Avila said he made a routine visit to Gardenhire’s office Saturday, when the manager told him about the decision. “On behalf of all of us with the Detroit Tigers, congratulations to Ron Gardenhire on a tremendous managerial career,” Tigers CEO Christopher Ilitch said in a statement. “Always, you'll miss baseball,” Gardenhire said.

DETROIT The Detroit Tigers are squarely back in the postseason picture after winning three straight series against playoff-bound teams. As of Monday, the Tigers sit just two games behind the Toronto Blue Jays for the No. Here are five starting pitchers and five outfielders the Tigers could consider targeting in a last-minute deal. Danny DuffyThere isnt much talk about Duffy right now, but hes having a really strong season. It would be a shock to see the Tigers target a player of Martes caliber, but it would actually make sense.

DETROIT The Detroit Tigers are certainly a team to watch at this years strange trade deadline. These are the players the Tigers likely wouldnt trade because they want to build around them for the future and they wouldnt get equal value in return. Other playersThe rest of the players on the Tigers roster fall into four possible categories: role players, players whove lost value because of rough seasons, question marks and Miguel Cabrera. Some players might have had some trade value if they were having strong seasons, and they might regain value in the future. The chance that they become decent contributors outweighs their modest trade value.

Considering the 2020 season is only 60 games long, rental players wont be worth as much ahead of Mondays deadline. Tigers prospect breakdowns:Its a unique season and we dont really know what the deadline will bring. Heres a look at eight possible trades with eight different teams who could be interested in some of the Tigers assets. Sports world to Detroit fans: No, you have not yet suffered enoughThe catcher spot has been a disaster in 2020. Austin Romine has been solid for the Tigers this season and would cost next to nothing as a 25-game rental.

DETROIT Less than a week ago, the Detroit Tigers were four games above .500, in first place in the AL Central Division and multiple games ahead of the other wildcard contenders. After two disappointing losses to the Chicago White Sox and another sweep at the hands of the Cleveland Indians, the Tigers have a losing record and sit outside the current playoff picture. The slide began with Matt Boyd handing back a hard-earned lead against the White Sox on Wednesday. As it stands, the Tigers have lost 20 straight games to the Indians -- a stunning streak for a Major League Baseball team. But losing five in a row erased that cushion, and now theyre forced to win against legitimate playoff teams.

DETROIT The start of the 2020 season has gone better for the Detroit Tigers than anyone could have reasonably imagined. With a quarter of their season in the books, the Tigers are squarely in the middle of the playoff hunt. Casey Mize #74 of the Detroit Tigers pitches during the Detroit Tigers Summer Workouts at Comerica Park on July 6, 2020 in Detroit, Michigan. JaCoby Jones #21 of the Detroit Tigers bats during game one of a doubleheader against the Cincinnati Reds at Comerica Park on August 2, 2020 in Detroit, Michigan. In a 162-game season with 10 playoff teams, the Tigers wouldnt have a prayer of making the postseason.

His comments Wednesday morning make it sound like the Detroit Tigers could be without him for a long time. Free agentsThere arent many free agents to choose from in the middle of the season, and the ones who are out there are free agents for a reason. The San Francisco Giants are buried behind the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Diego Padres and Colorado Rockies in the NL West and dont expect to compete in the near future. Brandon Belt #9 of the San Francisco Giants fields during the game against the Colorado Rockies at Oracle Park on September 24, 2019 in San Francisco, California. (2019 Getty Images)Belt has won two World Series titles in San Francisco, which could be attractive to the Tigers.

DETROIT Say what you want about the last three years of Detroit Tigers baseball, but beneath the losing records and long, painful summers, theyve done a lot of things right during this rebuild. Detroit Tigers coaches look on and watch as Casey Mize #74 of the Detroit Tigers warms up in the bullpen during the Detroit Tigers Summer Workouts at Comerica Park on July 14, 2020 in Detroit, Michigan. Due to the shortened season, Mize only needed to be off the roster for about a week to remain under team control for an additional year. But Mize isnt getting any game experience right now because COVID-19 wiped out the minor league season. Casey Mize #74 of the Detroit Tigers pitches during the Detroit Tigers Summer Workouts at Comerica Park on July 6, 2020 in Detroit, Michigan.

DETROIT This might be the most exciting time of the year for Detroit Tigers fans. Probability of being in actual Opening Day lineup: Keep dreaming! But the main reason hes included in this version of the Tigers lineup is his continuing ascent up the all-time leaderboards. Miguel Cabrera #24 of the Detroit Tigers looks on during Spring Training workouts at the TigerTown Facility on February 17, 2020 in Lakeland, Florida. Isaac Paredes #19 of the Detroit Tigers looks on during Spring Training workouts at the TigerTown Facility on February 18, 2020 in Lakeland, Florida.

DETROIT For the first time since spring training in Lakeland was suspended due to the coronavirus outbreak, the Detroit Tigers resumed training Friday morning at Comerica Park. Tigers GM Al Avila said recently that anything could happen in the 60-game season. You talk to the staff, you talk to the players, you see how it was going into spring training before it was shutdown? Friday morning, the Tigers focused on the pitchers and catchers -- Pitching could be the Tigers big strength this year. Media personnel will be relegated to certain sections of the park and wont be allowed in the clubhouse, so all interviews will be done digitally.

DETROIT The Detroit Tigers have signed No. 1 overall pick Spencer Torkelson to a record contract, locking up the sixth and final member of their impressive 2020 draft class. MLB Pipelines Jim Callis reports Torkelson signed for $8,416,300, which is $1,000 over the No. 1 draft slot value. pic.twitter.com/8TPPBzuWBk Detroit Tigers (@tigers) June 30, 2020

As baseball scrambles to start an abbreviated season, the prevailing mood is one of nervous excitement. All of these issues could become moot if there's a major outbreak of the virus within baseball. "Ive seen the reports in Houston how COVIDs going up so Im going to have to really be careful. It will be unusual following new safety protocols that are at times incompatible with human nature on the baseball field. Theyre very focused on that and the staff thats going to be associated with the games once we fire up, Crane said.

Since Oct. 19, 2013, the Tigers, Lions, Pistons and Red Wings are a combined 5-25 in playoff games, with the Red Wings accounting for all five wins in first-round losses. So the question everyones been asking for years remains: Which team is closest to bringing a championship to Detroit? The only argument in favor of the Lions being the closest to winning a championship is the year-to-year unpredictability in the NFL. The former Red Wings legend has traded in his sweater for a suit and tie to bring Hockeytown back to glory. After floundering in the latter years of the Ken Holland era, Red Wings fans can feel optimistic about the direction of the franchise.

1 overall selection certainly helps when putting together a draft class, and the Tigers owned the top pick for the second time in three years. 62 overall in Competitive Balance Round BWhen the second night of the draft began, many wanted the Tigers to take Cabrera -- the No. LSU outfielder Daniel Cabrera (Associated Press)With Torkelson, Dingler and Cabrera, the Tigers got the No. Even though he might not have been projected as a third-round pick, Cruz fits the prototype the Tigers were targeting this draft. 87 overall prospect in the draft, but the Tigers got him nearly 50 picks later.

DETROIT The Detroit Tigers selected high school third baseman Colt Keith in the fifth round of the MLB draft. He hit .448 with 15 home runs and 32 doubles in 99 career high school games, according to Max Preps. Tigers 2020 draft picks :MLBs draft, usually 40 rounds, was shortened to five rounds because of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. 1 overall selectionThe Tigers kicked off the 2020 MLB draft Wednesday by selecting Arizona State first baseman Spencer Torkelson. 24 overall prospect, according to MLB Pipeline.

DETROIT The Detroit Tigers selected Arizona State third baseman Gage Workman in the fourth round of the MLB draft. 73 overall in MLB Pipelines draft rankings. 1 overall selectionThe Tigers kicked off the 2020 MLB draft Wednesday by selecting Arizona State first baseman Spencer Torkelson. Second-round pickThe Tigers drafted Ohio State catcher Dillon Dingler to kick off the second-round of the MLB draftThe Tigers got a value with this pick, nabbing the No. Compensatory pickThe Tigers took a third straight college bat in the Competitive Balance Round B of the draft.

DETROIT The Detroit Tigers selected Rice shortstop Trei Cruz in the third round of the MLB draft. 126 overall prospect at No. 1 overall selectionThe Tigers kicked off the 2020 MLB draft Wednesday by selecting Arizona State first baseman Spencer Torkelson. 24 overall prospect, according to MLB Pipeline. Compensatory pickThe Tigers took a third straight college bat in the Competitive Balance Round B of the draft.

DETROIT The Detroit Tigers selected LSU outfielder Daniel Cabrera with their selection in the Competitive Balance Round B of the MLB draft. 62 overall pick. For the second straight pick, the Tigers took a player projected to go much earlier in the draft. 38 overall prospect, according to MLB Pipeline. 1 overall selectionThe Tigers kicked off the 2020 MLB draft Wednesday by selecting Arizona State first baseman Spencer Torkelson.

DETROIT The Detroit Tigers selected Ohio State catcher Dillon Dingler in the second round of the MLB draft. Dingler was taken with the first pick of the second round, No. That was obviously a blow to the Tigers, as they would have had the top selection in each round. 1 overall selectionThe Tigers kicked off the 2020 MLB draft Wednesday by selecting Arizona State first baseman Spencer Torkelson. Tigers rebuildDetroit finished with the worst record in baseball last season for the second time in three years, going just 47-114.

DETROIT The Detroit Tigers selected Arizona State first baseman Spencer Torkelson with the No. READ: What the Detroit Tigers are getting in Spencer TorkelsonTorkelson joins outfielder Riley Greene -- the teams first-round pick last season at No. The Detroit Tigers are rebuilding around an impressive group of minor league pitchers. Whether its Arizona State slugger Spencer Torkelson or somebody else, Detroit has a chance to add another potential standout when it makes the No. Arizona State first baseman Spencer Torkelson.

DETROIT The Detroit Tigers have the No. 1 pick in Wednesdays MLB draft, and Arizona State first baseman Spencer Torkelson is considered the most likely selection. The Detroit Tigers are rebuilding around an impressive group of minor league pitchers. Whether its Arizona State slugger Spencer Torkelson or somebody else, Detroit has a chance to add another potential standout when it makes the No. Lacey is the top pitching prospect in the draft and would join an embarrassment of riches in the Tigers system.

(AP Photo/Ben McKeown, File)NEW YORK Major League Baseball's amateur draft begins Wednesday night with the first of a pandemic-shortened five rounds. (TENNESSEE) (6-2, 195, 18)Lefty-hitting Hassell is considered by many to be the best pure hitter among high school players. 1 overall, which would make him the first college first baseman to lead off a draft. Undrafted in high school, Torkelson has power to all fields with a powerful right-handed swing and a great eye and patience at the plate. (FLORIDA) (6-4, 190, 18)Arguably the top overall high school player in the draft, with tantalizing five-tools talent.

DETROIT - It appears 2020 will be another long, difficult season for the Detroit Tigers, and that's likely why they were willing to add huge package of incentives for one Local 4 employee to renew his 28-game season ticket package. Our employee said the Tigers aren't aware that he works for Local 4 News, so this package is likely offered to all season ticket holders with his ticket package. He also had the option to choose one of the following four packages:Corporate : Top Golf event, executive breakfast, pregame cocktail hours, Taste of MLB event. Diehard : Tiger team party, Tiger team bowling event, Chalk Talk with manager Ron Gardenhire and general manager Al Avila, away team viewing party. : Tiger team party, Tiger team bowling event, Chalk Talk with manager Ron Gardenhire and general manager Al Avila, away team viewing party.

Richie Martin #1 of the Baltimore Orioles beats the tag from second baseman Willi Castro #49 of the Detroit Tigers to steal second base during the sixth inning at Comerica Park. The loss gave Baltimore its second straight 100-loss season after the Orioles finished 47-115 a year ago. Reyes hit his towering home run to right field off Baltimore closer Mychal Givens, who had worked nine straight scoreless appearances. The Orioles had taken a 4-3 lead in the top of the 12th inning as Rio Ruiz singled to score Mason Williams off Daniel Stumpf. Castro homered to right field in the third inning to open the scoring for Detroit.

Matthew Boyd #48 of the Detroit Tigers throws a first inning pitch while playing the Seattle Mariners at Comerica Park on August 13, 2019 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)DETROIT - Matt Boyd, the lone bright spot of the Detroit Tigers' season, turned in a second-straight terrible start Tuesday, leaving fans to wonder if general manager Al Avila made a mistake by holding onto Boyd at the trade deadline. Boyd has pitched only eight innings over his last two starts, allowing 11 earned runs on 13 hits and five walks. Matthew Boyd #48 of the Detroit Tigers pitches in the sixth inning against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park on July 28, 2019 in Seattle, Washington. Matt Boyd of the Detroit Tigers during a game against the Minnesota Twins on April 22, 2017, at Target Field in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

DETROIT Matt Boyd, the lone bright spot of the Detroit Tigers' season, turned in a second-straight terrible start Tuesday, leaving fans to wonder if general manager Al Avila made a mistake by holding onto Boyd at the trade deadline. Boyd has pitched only eight innings over his last two starts, allowing 11 earned runs on 13 hits and five walks. Matthew Boyd #48 of the Detroit Tigers pitches in the sixth inning against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park on July 28, 2019 in Seattle, Washington. In that span, Boyd has allowed 48 earned runs and 23 home runs in 73.1 innings. Matt Boyd of the Detroit Tigers during a game against the Minnesota Twins on April 22, 2017, at Target Field in Minneapolis, Minnesota.