MLB Detroit Tigers

5 Predictions For Detroit Tigers Heading Into 2015

5 Predictions For Detroit Tigers Heading Into 2015

CabreraAusmus
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

It has been well over three months since the Detroit Tigers were swept at the hands of the Baltimore Orioles in the 2014 ALDS. In a matter of weeks, however, pitchers and catchers will be reporting to Spring Training, and the Tigers will be embarking on yet another mission to win their first World Series since 1984. Without further ado, here are five predictions for the Tigers heading into this upcoming season.

5. Alex Avila Will Have His Best Offensive Season Since 2011

AlexAvila
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

5. Alex Avila Will Have His Best Offensive Season Since 2011

AlexAvilaCopy
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Back in 2011, Alex Avila made an All-Star team and won a Silver Slugger award, but his bat has been much less impressive in the three seasons since. Going into 2015, there is a rumor that Avila may be part of an even platoon with rookie backstop James McCann, and it has also been reported that he may even see some time at first base. Reducing his innings behind the plate and exposure to LHP may very well lead to a spike in offensive production.

4. Anthony Gose Will Win A Gold Glove In CF

AnthonyGose
Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

4. Anthony Gose Will Win A Gold Glove In CF

AnthonyGoseCopy
Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

When the Tigers dealt Austin Jackson to the Seattle Mariners, it created a bit of a hole in center field. The situation was addressed early in the offseason when the team acquired Anthony Gose from the Toronto Blue Jays. Gose, who is expected to platoon with Rajai Davis, already has the reputation of a defensive wizard. Although he will face stiff competition, don't be shocked if he wins a Gold Glove in his first year in Motown.

3. Shane Greene Will Win 15 Games

ShaneGreene
Joy R. Absalon-USA TODAY Sports

3. Shane Greene Will Win 15 Games

ShaneGreeneCopy
Joy R. Absalon-USA TODAY Sports

Although the Tigers' starting rotation will undoubtedly look different without Rick Porcello and Max Scherzer, the team did pick up Shane Greene and Alfredo Simon in a pair of separate trades this offseason. Greene is particularly intriguing, as he seems to have the makings of a great ground-ball pitcher. If Greene pitches the way the Tigers feel he is capable of, he could win 15 games next year behind an improved defense and excellent offense.

2. Nick Castellanos Will Break Out In A Big Way

NickC
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

2. Nick Castellanos Will Break Out In A Big Way

NickCcopy
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

In 2014, Nick Castellanos had a respectable rookie season at the plate, slashing .259/.306/.394 with 11 homers and 66 RBIs. According to Fangraphs, Castellanos also had an excellent line drive rate of 28.5 percent, which is a great indication of his ability to make solid contact. Although his defense remains a bit of a concern, don't be surprised to see his batting average rise to the .270-.280 range with 20 homers and 80-plus RBIs in 2015.

1. David Price Will Win A Cy Young

DavidPrice
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

1. David Price Will Win A Cy Young

DavidPriceCopy
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

In 2012, David Price won his first Cy Young after going 20-5 with a 2.56 ERA and a 1.10 WHIP. During his time with the Tampa Bay Rays and Tigers in 2014, some of his numbers were even more impressive, as he posted career highs in strikeouts (271), innings pitched (248.1), FIP (2.78) and fWAR (6.1). At 29 years of age, it would hardly be a shock if we have yet to see the best of Price. Look for him to be the 2015 AL Cy Young winner.

Share Tweet