Detroit Tigers: Three key questions heading into offseason

Should the Detroit Tigers replace James McCann behind the plate?

Back in 2011, the Tigers drafted catcher James McCann in the first round. Since becoming a regular in the big leagues in 2015, McCann has been quite impressive behind the plate, particularly when it comes to his strong throwing arm. However, his bat has left much to be desired.

Last season, McCann did show signs of being ready to perhaps take his offensive game to the next level. Despite a low batting average, McCann slugged five home runs in the month of April. Although he wound up losing playing time to the hot-hitting Alex Avila, who was later traded to the Chicago Cubs, McCann ended up stringing together a very strong second half. After the All-Star break, McCann slashed a rock-solid .291/.345/.414.

In 2018, however, McCann was never able to hit it going at the plate. Through 118 games, he slashed .220/.267/.314 with eight home runs and 39 RBI. Though he continued to be a strong defensive player, he graded out at below replacement level, posting an -0.5 bWAR and an -0.1 fWAR.

McCann will be arbitration eligible this offseason. According to Chris McCosky of the Detroit News, GM Al Avila has already admitted that the team will have to make a “tough decision” regarding McCann.

If the Tigers do decide to move on from McCann, it appears likely that they could decide to go with a Grayson Greiner/John Hicks catching tandem in 2019. Greiner had a decent showing through 30 games this past season and would obviously be an affordable option. Hicks, who also played first base in the absence of Miguel Cabrera, has been a bit of an asset to the team with his offense, slugging a total of 15 homers and posting a .734 OPS over the past two seasons.

In the long run, prospect Jake Rogers could become the catcher of the future. Rogers, who was acquired in the Justin Verlander trade last August, hit only .219/.305/.412 in Double-A Erie last season, but mashed 17 homers.