It seems that the Tigers have taken a big step forward in their rebuild, but the next step is likely to take a couple more years. I think that they might even see a decline next year as they integrate more rookies into the lineup and wait for their top talent to mature.
There has to be a few changes in personnel and there is even the potential for those changes to be big factors in future success. I just don't think that a major spending spree is likely though. I think that the Tigers will try to give their homegrown talent a chance to be all that they can be.
Spencer Torkelson, Riley Green, Ryan Kriedler, Cooper Johnson, Joey Wentz, and perhaps even one or two other rookies will likely arrive on the scene. Each has excellent potential, but expecting more than a good season out of a rookie campaign seems like wishful thinking.
Will they add a star shortstop through free agency? I frankly doubt it. I think Ryan Kriedler will be given the chance to fill that hole. Of course Willi Castro and maybe even Isaac Paredes might jump into the fray.
Will they add a star starting pitcher? I think not. The team is still one or two years away from really challenging the top teams, and that's if all goes well with their prime rookies.
Will they add a decent starting catcher? I think more of a marginal or one year filler is most likely. Dillon Dingler is likely the future, although I also think Cooper Johnson and perhaps even Ebenezer Alfonzo is lurking for a chance to prove they can play in the big leagues.
Here's a more likely roster for the Tigers either at the start or sometime during 2022:
C Cooper Johnson, Eric Haase
1B Spencer Torkelson, Miguel Cabrera
2B Jonathan Schoop, Harold Castro
3B Jeimer Candelario, Isaac Paredes
SS Ryan Kriedler, Willi Castro
LF Akil Baddoo, Robbie Grossman
CF Riley Green, Derek Hill
RF Daz Cameron, Victor Reyes
SP Casey Mize, Tarik Skubal, Matt Manning, Tyler Alexander, Joey Wentz, Drew Hutchinson
RP Kyle Funkhouser, Alex Lange, Michael Fulmer, Jose Cisnero, Joe Jimenez, Gregory Soto
