Tucker Barnhart could be more than one year answer for Detroit Tigers

The Detroit Tigers are looking to get their shopping done as quickly as possible. They stole Tucker Barnhart from the Reds as Cincinnati was dumping salary, then emerged as the winners of the Eduardo Rodriguez Sweepstakes. The Tigers are making a statement that they are ready to contend, and be a force for years to come.

Barnhart may be a part of that equation for more than the 2022 season. According to Robert Murray, the Tigers have met with his representatives about a possible extension. Nothing is imminent, but the fact that the two sides are talking is a good sign.

Detroit Tigers looking to keep Tucker Barnhart

A respectable hitter for a catcher, Barnhart is someone that can potentially help on both sides of the game. While his overall .247/.317/.368 batting line with seven homers and 21 doubles in 388 plate appearances may not seem impressive, that production was roughly average for a major league catcher last season.

But Barnhart is valued mostly for what he can do behind the plate. A two time Gold Glove winner, he has worked to become solid at framing pitches and does a respectable job when it comes to controlling the running game.

However, his greatest strengths are difficult to quantify with statistics. Barnhart is lauded for his ability to call a game and control a pitching staff, areas that will be vitally important to the Tigers’ hopes this season. Even with Rodriguez on board, Detroit still has a young rotation, and having a strong presence behind the plate will make a difference.

That is a difference that could be felt for years. Having that veteran backstop in Barnhart, someone who knows the ins and outs of the position and can help those young starters develop will make an impact. If he can do that, he will be worth every penny of a possible extension.

The Detroit Tigers are looking to keep Tucker Barnhart beyond the 2022 season. He could be a key part of the future of the organization.