With less than a week remaining in April, the Detroit Tigers currently find themselves sitting in fourth place in the AL Central with a record of 8-9. There have certainly been a few positives for the Tigers in the early goings of this season, but unsurprisingly, there have been negatives as well. Here are five early concerns for the Tigers so far this season.
5. Injuries
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY SportsAlthough the Tigers were recently given a boost with the return of relievers Alex Wilson and Blaine Hardy, outfielder Cameron Maybin, catcher James McCann and pitcher Daniel Norris remain out. It would be huge to get the team to full strength.
4. Lack Of Speed On The Basepaths
Troy Taormina-USA TODAY SportsOut of 30 MLB teams, the Tigers currently rank last with only two stolen bases. They should be able to survive without an abundance of speed on the basepaths, but the big bats will need to start producing more to make up for it.
3. Lack Of Center Field Production
Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY SportsThe Tigers have posted a .153/.219/.220 slash line out of the center field position so far this season. Maybin isn't necessarily known for his bat either, but he did post a solid .267 BA with the Braves last year, so his return could be helpful.
2. Justin Upton's Struggles
Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY SportsIn his first season after signing a reported six-year, $132.75 million deal with the Tigers, Justin Upton is off to a .214/.247/.314 start with just one home run and 30 strikeouts. It would be huge for the Tigers if he could break out of his slump.
1. Starting Rotation Struggles
Aaron Doster-USA TODAY SportsAlthough Jordan Zimmermann has been flawless to start his Tigers career, Detroit's rotation currently has a 4.57 ERA overall on the season. The Tigers are going to need some of their starters to begin stepping up in a big way.
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