Detroit Tigers 2015 MLB season preview and predictions
By Brad Rowland
It seems like a long time since the Detroit Tigers were anything but contenders for the World Series crown. Gone are the days when the Tigers were the virtual laughingstock of Major League Baseball, highlighted by a 43-119 campaign in 2003, and in recent years, you would have a hard time finding a more stable organization in baseball.
This season, however, brings a bit of upheaval in the Motor City, as the team’s best pitcher from 2014, Max Scherzer, is no longer on the roster and there are mounting concerns about the age and depth of the 25-man group. Make no mistake, Detroit is the favorite in the AL Central until they don’t win it, and that is what happens after four consecutive division titles. However, the pack appears to be catching up to the Tigers, and this could be an important year for their direction moving forward.
The prognosis of this year’s group are still to be determined, but in this space, we will take a look at what the 2015 season should bring for Tigers. Before we do that, however, let’s reflect on what transpired in 2014.
2014 Capsule
Record: 90-72
WAR leader (Position Players): Ian Kinsler and Miguel Cabrera – 5.4
WAR leader (Pitchers): Max Scherzer – 5.6
Key moment: On July 31, the Tigers elected to trade Drew Smyly, Austin Jackson and minor league infielder Willy Adames as part of a three-team deal to acquire David Price from the Tampa Bay Rays.
Next: Key Additions/Subtractions