The Detroit Tigers were a surprise in 2023 as they finished second in the AL Central. That showing appears to have been enough to push the front office towards making some moves.
Those moves began on Saturday. The Tigers acquired outfielder Mark Canha from the Brewers in exchange for minor league reliever Blake Holub. As Canha has an $11.5 million option for the 2024 season, it appears to be a foregone conclusion that the Tigers will pick up that price tag.
Mark Canha perfect fit for Detroit Tigers
Canha will solidify a Tigers outfield that has the potential to be a surprising unit next season. Riley Greene showed why he was one of the top prospects in the game and could take a significant step forward. Kerry Carpenter had a breakout season as he was one of three players on the roster to crack 20 homers. Meanwhile, Canha would allow the Tigers to utilize Akil Baddoo as a fourth outfielder while potentially freeing up Zach McKinstry to spend more time around the infield or as their primary designated hitter.
He had another typically solid year in 2023. Canha produced a .262/.355/.400 batting line in his 507 plate appearances between the Mets and Brewers, hitting 11 homers and 25 doubles while stealing 11 bases. He was solid defensively as well as he spent most of his time at the corner outfield positions while also seeing time at first and third. He is another versatile piece for Scott Harris as he remakes the Tigers’ roster.
Holub is not necessarily a throwaway piece received in exchange for Canha’s salary. He had posted a solid 3.03 ERA and a 1.071 WHiP over his 65.1 innings between High-A and Double A, striking out 76 batters with 16 walks. His command took a significant step forward last year, and armed with a riding fastball in the mid 90s, he is an interesting piece for the future.
The Detroit Tigers are showing signs that they feel they can contend in 2024. Adding Mark Canha is a step in that direction.
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