3. Isaac Paredes
Minors (AA): 552 plate appearances, .282/.368/.416, 23 doubles, 13 homers, five steals, 57 walks, 61 strikeouts
There is no question that Isaac Paredes can hit. The question is – where does he play?
Another top prospect acquired in a trade, Paredes came from the Cubs as part of the package that sent Justin Wilson and Alex Avila to Chicago. Although Paredes struggled initially as part of the Tigers system, he reached the AA level in 2018, showing a solid bat. Back in AA for the entirety of 2019, he did nothing to change that profile.
At the plate, Paredes has an advanced approach, showing a strong batting eye and a stellar ability to put the bat on the ball. For such a contact oriented approach, he does a tremendous job of squaring up the opposition, although the majority of his pop comes when he pulls the ball. That may change as he continues to mature physically, although to the detriment of his already questionable speed.
With a solid glove and strong arm, Paredes would seemingly fit at short. The problem is, he does not have much range. As it is, the Tigers have already begun trying him at other positions, notably at third base. There is an opening at the hot corner, as Dawel Lugo simply is not the answer. Paredes could end up being the answer for the long term.
Chances are, Isaac Paredes will have to shift away from short. His bat should play up enough for him to be a solid option at third, although he profiles more as a two hole hitter than a middle of the lineup thumper.