PT TOMORROW: AL Central—Four spring position battles and a catcher situation to watch

Detroit Tigers

Jeimer Candelario (3B, DET; pictured above) demonstrated an inability to stay healthy and consistently contribute to the 2019 Tigers season, so he finds himself in a competition for 3B playing time in Detroit, despite a performance uptick in the second half. He teased with harder and more frequent contact, but only his slugging showed modest improvement while the BA and OBA still disappointed.  

Candelario’s inconsistent play opened the door for Dawel Lugo (3B, DET) to be the Tigers’ third base playing time leader in 2019 (about 20 innings more there than Candelario). Lugo’s bat was a non-factor (.652 OPS in 273 AB), rendering his 128 Spd rating a non-factor as well (zero stolen base opportunities). 

Both Candelario and...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Tomorrow

A new injury on top of Kyle Teel's previous one may open up new opportunity for a White Sox catcher. Plus, paths to more playing time for Kyle Manzardo, injury returns in DET, SP depth in KC, and the struggles of Brooks Lee in MIN.
May 21 2026 3:05am
The Mariners added Brennen Davis to the 40-man roster, moving him one step closer to joining the team.
May 20 2026 3:06am
Mickey Gasper has taken a prominent spot in Boston's struggling lineup and is flashing some interesting skills. Plus, Spencer Jones' early struggles could necessitate change for NYY, and more.
May 19 2026 3:05am
The BHQ playing time metrics give us a new perspective on our previous beliefs about NL West players. So this week, let's see what we can learn.
May 16 2026 3:06am

Tools