Detroit Tigers 2021 season grades for the team’s outfielders

Detroit Tigers season grades for two Rule 5 Draft products.

Akil Baddoo, LF/CF: B+

Akil Baddoo was easily the breakout star of 2021. By now, everyone knows the story of how Minnesota drafted him in 2016, where he saw minimal time in the minor leagues before the Detroit Tigers acquired him through the Rule 5 Draft. It is fair to say he burst into the league with four home runs in his first eight games.

He came down to earth somewhat but still managed to be a consistent player. He has undeniable speed on the basepaths: his seven triples were tied for second in the league, and he added 18 stolen bases as well. His work ethic was certainly evident as he earned a starting outfield role; he should pick up right where he left off in 2022. Even more good news: Baddoo only just turned 23. He should still be inexpensive for now, but another year of production will inevitably raise his value.

Victor Reyes, CF/RF: B-

Victor Reyes, another product of the Rule 5 Draft, has now been with Detroit for four years. He struggled for the first part of the season, which earned him a demotion to AAA Toledo. He was sidelined again in the month of June with an injury, but after his return, Reyes put together a very respectable second half.

From July 17 on, he boasted an on-base percentage of .348 before being injured again in mid-September. His injury luck is naturally a concern going forward, but he has otherwise turned into a steady piece for the Tigers in recent years.