New year, new expectations for Tigers: 5 things to expect in 2022

The Detroit Tigers are optimistic about the new year. Major League Baseball and its players are engaged in a work stoppage. The lockout is an unwelcome distraction for teams like the Tigers.

Everything listed below should happen in 2022. If the first one is right, baseball will start this spring. The Tigers are the team to watch in the new year.

The spring training will be delayed, but only briefly. The first exhibition games will take place in late February. There has been no progress in the negotiations since the lockout was instituted on Dec. 1. Pitchers and catchers are due to report in mid-February.

The Tigers are expected to be around .500 this season. They will make the playoffs for the first time since 2014. The current playoff field is 10 teams, so they need to win 90 games to get in.

The Tigers have done all the shopping before Dec. 1. They will look for a starting pitcher and a bullpen arm. Carlos Rodon's availability is limited due to health issues. The Tigers’ payroll flexibility might allow for one more winter surprise. The team is very southpaw-heavy.

A.J. Hinch will be given a lot of players to mix and match in his first year as Detroit skipper in 2021. The Tigers tendered contracts to arbitration-eligible players like catcher Dustin Garneau, outfielder Victor Reyes and utility man Harold Castro. In the infield, youngsters Willi Castro and Isaac Paredes have uncertain roles. Derek Hill and Daz Cameron are in the same boat.

Akil Baddoo came out of nowhere and became a big part of the Tigers' turnaround last season. Willi Castro struggled in 2020 and is expected to do the same in 2022.