Tigers Fans Will Love Latest Update on Potential Tucker Barnhart Contract Extension

The Detroit Tigers were looking to add stability to their catcher position when they acquired Tucker Barnhart from the Cincinnati Reds back in November. Fast forward to MLB Spring Training and the 31-year-old has already made a positive impact on the fans, with some already calling for a contract extension.

It's now looking like those fans could get their wish granted as the 2022 MLB season looms. MLB Network's Jon Morosi reported Thursday that the Tigers are interested "in exploring a contract extension" with Barnhart.

Tucker Barnhart News

Morosi added in a separate tweet that although the Tigers see 23-year-old Dillon Dingler being their "catcher of the future," his lack of MLB experience has them feeling comfortable with Barnhart for the time being.

Barnhart has been defensively sounded in eight Spring Training appearances with the Tigers so far. The two-time Gold Glove-winning catcher has recorded a 1.000 fielding percentage in that span, along with 42 putouts on 43 chances.

In addition to his defense, Barnhart also has the ability to chip in offensively when needed. He finished with seven home runs, 48 RBI and a .247 batting average in 348 at-bats with the Cincinnati Reds last year. He's also recorded at least 40 RBI in each of the last five full-length seasons.

The Tigers will need all the help they can get if they want to make a mark this MLB season. Detroit currently has +5500 odds (No. 18) to win the 2022 World Series, according to FanDuel Sportsbook.

Devon Platana is not a FanDuel employee. The views expressed in his articles are the author's alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of FanDuel.