Over the past five years, A.J. Hinch and his staff have consistently demonstrated a knack for maximizing the potential of a solid, albeit not dominant, Tigers roster.
Their strategic approach encompasses everything from savvy pinch-hitting to innovative bullpen management, and even the finer details like aggressive baserunning. These efforts help mitigate weaknesses and amplify strengths, creating a cohesive unit that often outperforms expectations.
A recent analysis by Sports Info Solutions highlights another facet of the Tigers' success: their defensive positioning. This organization has been at the forefront of sports analytics, particularly with their development of the Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) metric, widely used to assess defensive performance.
In 2024, the Tigers posted a combined negative four in individual DRS. However, their strategic positioning added a remarkable 40 runs saved, transforming their defensive impact. Fast forward to 2025, and the team faced a similar scenario: a negative 11 in individual DRS, yet their positioning contributed an impressive 47 runs saved, culminating in a net gain of 36 runs.
DRS evaluates plays based on various factors like the fielder's position at contact, ball speed, and trajectory. It also considers unique elements that raw data might miss, such as obstructions or deflections. This contrasts with Statcast’s Outs Above Average (OAA), which focuses on straightforward metrics like the ball's landing spot and the fielder’s ability to reach it.
While no defensive metric is flawless, the Tigers' approach to positioning provides a significant edge. Sports Info Solutions adds depth by grading how well teams position their fielders relative to where balls are hit throughout a season. Teams that excel in this area gain a strategic advantage, starting plays in optimal positions based on hitters' tendencies.
This success isn't solely attributed to George Lombard and Joey Cora's adept positioning based on analytics. It also involves orchestrating the pitching strategy to influence where hitters send the ball. Chris Fetter's expertise in game-planning and pitch sequencing plays a crucial role, ensuring that pitchers and catchers are on the same page.
Fetter's ability to blend pitching tactics with defensive alignment was a hallmark of his tenure with the Michigan Wolverines, making him a coveted coach at the major league level. A.J.
Hinch and the Tigers made a smart move in securing his talents, as evidenced by their results, which often exceed the raw talent on the roster. Despite not drastically transforming many young pitchers, the Tigers consistently perform well due to this strategic synergy.
The Tigers' approach suggests that even average defenders can perform above their pay grade through superior positioning and strategic ball placement. Individual defensive metrics might not reflect exceptional ability, but when players are consistently positioned advantageously, the team thrives.
Hinch and his coaching staff have taken the concept of positioning players for success to heart, and the Tigers are reaping the benefits.