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MLB Detroit Tigers

5 Reasons Why Tyler Collins Should Be On Detroit Tigers’ 2015 Opening Day Roster

By @Brad_Faber

5 Reasons Why Tyler Collins Should Make Tigers' Opening Day Roster

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Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

In Spring Training of this year, the injury to Andy Dirks created a window for Tyler Collins to make the Detroit Tigers' 25-man roster. Although Collins was able to head north with the big league club, he would soon be sent to Triple-A Toledo, where he would stay until rosters expanded on Sept. 1. With the 2014 season now in the rear view, here are five reasons why Collins should make Detroit's 2015 Opening Day roster.

5. Versatile Outfielder

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David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

5. Versatile Outfielder

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David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

Although Collins is most likely a better fit for the corner outfield spots, he can play all three outfield positions nevertheless. With Rajai Davis likely to start in left, newly-acquired Anthony Gose in center and J.D. Martinez in right, Collins would most likely be a fourth outfielder, and it would obviously be a plus to be able to slot him into any one of the outfield spots when the need arises.

4. Surprising Speed

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Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

4. Surprising Speed

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Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

Although Collins most likely does not have as much speed as Gose or newly-signed Xavier Avery, he still seems to run pretty well. Collins swiped 12 bases for Triple-A Toledo in 2014, and he even stole as many as 20 bags back in 2012 when playing in Class-A advanced Lakeland. His speed should be considered a bonus to the other attributes he would be bringing to the table.

3. Left-Handed Bat

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Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

3. Left-Handed Bat

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Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports

With the exception of the switch-hitting Victor Martinez, the Tigers seemed to lack left-handed pop in 2014, and it looks like that may continue to be a problem heading into 2015. Sure, Alex Avila can still hit a few long balls, but his health remains a concern. Gose may hit from the left side, but he is only a .234 hitter in three seasons in the big leagues. The lefty-swinging Collins, however, has flashed 20-homer power in the minors.

2. Better Fit Than Steven Moya At The Moment

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Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

2. Better Fit Than Steven Moya At The Moment

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Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Although Steven Moya hit 35 home runs and drove in 105 runs in Double-A Erie and continues to be a very intriguing prospect, he would likely benefit from beginning the season in Triple-A Toledo, where he will be able to play every day. Moya posted just a .306 OBP and struck out 161 times in Double-A, so he may still have a few things to work on. Right now, Collins looks like he might be a better fit for a platoon role with the Tigers in 2015.

1. Thin Free Agent Market

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Joy R. Absalon-USA TODAY Sports

1. Thin Free Agent Market

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Joy R. Absalon-USA TODAY Sports

If the Tigers were to look to the free agent market to find a left-handed outfielder, they would find that this year's crop is quite thin. Sure, Nori Aoki is out there and he may look enticing with his career .287 BA and .353 OBP, but he hit only one homer in 2014. Melky Cabrera and Nick Markakis are out there too, but they are likely seeking hefty contracts and full-time roles. Detroit would most likely be better off giving Collins a chance.

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