Detroit Tigers Playoff Roster Prediction: Playoff Spot Clinched Edition

The Detroit Tigers Playoff roster will look a little different than it did 11 days ago. Since the initial playoff roster prediction, the Tiges have gone (2-9). At the time, the Tigers' chances of making the playoffs and winning the division were both above 90%. Regardless of the trade deadline issues, the pitching woes, and the panic, the Tigers are in.

No jinxing it this time.

Photo by Lesly Juarez on Unsplash

Detroit Tigers Playoff Roster Prediction: Playoff Spot Clinched Edition

Starting Pitching (4)

Tarik Skubal/Casey Mize/Jack Flaherty/Keider Montero

In the previous edition, it seemed like the Tigers would never part ways with Charlie Morton and his 7.09 ERA. They have since opted to start Keider Montero. While Montero hasn't necessarily blown the doors down, he does have a solid ERA as a starter (3.86 before his 4.1 of one-run ball today). He's played well enough to be on the roster regardless of position.

Tarik Skubal is a Cy Young winner (probably back-to-back). Casey Mize and Jack Flaherty will ultimately determine how this team can play in the postseason. They are two of the team's X-factors. Both have had stretches in the second half where they struggled and others where they excelled. Mize has a 3.49 ERA in September, and Flaherty has 3.86.

Bullpen (9)

Will Vest/Tommy Kahnle/Tyler Holton/Rafael Montero/Brennan Hanifee/Troy Melton/Bailey Horn/Kyle Finnegan/Brant Hurter

Paul Sewald is the big absence, but he hasn't shown enough in his limited time to earn a spot over strong performances from Brennan Hanifee or Bailey Horn. Certainly expect Horn if the Tigers match up with Cleveland. Will Vest, Tyler Holton, Brant Hurter, and Kyle Finnegan are locks for their leverage role and versatility. Troy Melton can also pitch in a multitude of situations, playing a key role in helping the Tigers end their losing streak against Cleveland. Rafael Montero has proven himself invaluable. If Tommy Kahnle can be the best version of himself, he, too, is invaluable for the postseason.

Catchers (2)

Dillon Dingler/Jake Rogers

Dillon Dingler has been one of the Tigers' breakout players this year. The team's second-half woes have overshadowed his importance to this team. He leads the Tigers' position players in WAR. Jake Rogers does Jake Rogers stuff. Great behind the plate and hits the occasional homer.

First Base (1)

Spencer Torkelson

A year ago, Spencer Torkelson's role within the organization seemed to be nearing its end. After a strong season with solid power numbers, Torkelson has established himself as a middle-of-the-order hitter and a solid first baseman.

Second Base (1)

Gleyber Torres

His All-Star season still doesn't receive enough credit, but Gleyber Torres has helped turn the Tigers into one of the AL's best teams.

Third Base (1)

Andy Ibanez

Andy Ibanez has crushed left-handed pitching since his return to the Majors. He'll play as a pinch hitter once again.

Shortstop (2)

Zach McKinstry/Javier Baez

Zach McKinstry and Javier Baez were both All-Stars this season but have cooled off at the plate. Still, they both provide positional versatility. Baez's ability to play in center helps with Matt Vierling's injury. McKinstry can play anywhere. Trey Sweeney bats left and provides some solid play at shortstop, but he hasn't been able to hit.

Leftfield (2)

Riley Greene/Jahmai Jones

Riley Greene is finishing up a career year: 34 home runs and 104 RBIs. Jahmai Jones has been the team's most consistent pinch hitter against left-handed pitching. Jones has been key to helping the Tigers salvage their postseason journey.

Centerfield (1)

Parker Meadows

Parker Meadows has been a star since returning. In limited action (8 games), he has two home runs, six RBIs, and 10 hits. His defense alone would have secured a spot on the team. If he can keep up this offensive production, he could be an X-factor in October.

Righfield (2)

Kerry Carpenter/Wenceel Perez

Kerry Carpenter is the Tigers' best power hitter. He crushes the ball. He can also pinch-hit against a right-handed pitcher. Wenceel Perez takes second place for most-improved Tiger. He improved at the plate, hitting from both sides, and his outfield play has improved as the season progressed. His switch-hitting makes him valuable to Hinch.

The Detroit Tigers' Other Possibilities

Depending on Colt Keith's health, the final spot could go to either Justyn-Henry Malloy or Trey Sweeney. Malloy doesn't have defensive versatility, but he has a better bat than Sweeney.

The Tigers did not do it in the conventional way, but they have punched their ticket. Anything can happen in October.

(All stats provided by Baseball Reference)

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