Tigers projected to land promising Dodgers slugger after strong 2024

The Detroit Tigers have been able to build off of their progress last season and now find themselves in the picture for the third American League Wild Card spot.

At 71-70, they sit five games back of that final spot. However, they could potentially take a major step forward by adding a big piece this offseason.

Joel Reuter of Bleacher Report predicted each team's Opening Day lineup for 2025, and Teoscar Hernandez was listed in the Tigers projected lineup.

Hernandez is projected as the cleanup hitter and starting right fielder for the Tigers entering 2025. After signing a one-year deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers, he may receive a multi-year contract with his next team.

The veteran slugger would give the Tigers a significant offensive boost. They already have plenty of young stars such as Riley Greene, Kerry Carpenter, Spencer Torkelson, and Colt Keith.

Adding Hernandez would give them the proven bat they need in the middle of their lineup as they try to take the next step in 2025. Detroit could then bounce right back into the conversation for an AL Central title with the Cleveland Guardians, Kansas City Royals, and Minnesota Twins.

Signing Hernandez will be no easy task, as his market will be competitive after a strong 2024 season. The 31-year-old is hitting .266 with 28 home runs, 87 RBI, 10 stolen bases, and an .818 OPS this season and has been a threat in the middle of the Dodgers lineup.

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