IBC

Ketel Marte is not ready to pass off being the leader in the lineup for the Detroit Tigers. He bounced back last year to post much improved numbers while continuing to be one of the best switch hitters in baseball. Marte isn't the spry SS/CF he once was, but his defense was adequate at 2B and his walk and strikeout rate were the best of his career. His ability to control the strike zone will be paramount for young Detroit hitters to learn from in order for them to grow into their full potential. While Naylor might be the fire that drives the Tigers, Marte is the calm before that storm.

If there is a way to lift the Tigers above expectations, it will be pure fear by the rest of the team of Josh Naylor. There is no one in baseball quite like Naylor. Out of the gate, Naylor struggled last year by opening with a .612 OPS through April. There was a point where management rued the opportunity to move him. During May, Naylor's bat caught fire like his personality and he absolutely punished baseballs. His strikeout rate was considerably down and he settled in nicely as a 1B. The Tigers are going to lean on Naylor being the bat that makes people pitch to Ketel Marte and drives him in when he gets on base.