Outfielder Torii Hunter was a key to the Detroit Tigers’ run to yet another American League Central title. After yet another solid season, Hunter’s name is now generating buzz around the MLB this offseason.
Darren Wolfson of 1500ESPN.com reported the latest on Hunter:
… one player the Twins have already expressed interest in is outfielder Torii Hunter, per a source.
Teams were allowed to reach out to agents last week, but contractual terms can’t be discussed until late Monday night/Tuesday.
The Twins have made a few calls, including to Hunter’s representatives.
[…]
Word has it that Hunter has thought previously about finishing his career where it began — he was the Twins’ first round pick in 1993.
Hunter’s best years might be behind him, but the veteran has still contributed at a high level over the last several seasons. The 39-year-old has a .295 average, 34 home runs and 167 RBI over the last two years with the Tigers.
When Detroit’s season came to an end, Hunter spent time watching his sons play college football, but still pondered his return to baseball. Hunter spoke about returning during the 2015 season, via Chris Iott of MLive.com:
I really want to play with the Tigers, but if not I understand … There’s definitely a good chance I will play again though. …
Playing for a contender is very important to me, but taking a lesser role will be hard for me when my core numbers are pretty good, not just for a guy that’s 39 years old but also for a 22-year-old player.
Along with his bat, Hunter’s glove is typically a huge reason for his success. He struggled during the first few months of the season in Detroit last year, but stepped up when the team needed him down the stretch.
During his career, Hunter has won nine gold glove awards, but hasn’t taken one since 2009 with the Los Angeles Angels. Anthony Fenech of the Detroit Free Press passed along his thoughts on Hunter’s value for a team:
His outfield range has significantly diminished from his Gold Glove days but Hunter largely made the plays that needed to be made. …
He is lauded for his professionalism on the field and leadership off the field but could be stuck in a situation where the Tigers could not guarantee the playing time nor paycheck necessary for Hunter to consider another year in Detroit the right situation.
Wherever he lands, Hunter brings both talent and a wealth of leadership ability. Though he has never made it to a World Series, Hunter has played 48 postseason games with a .274 average in 208 plate appearances.
It’s not clear which team Hunter will play for during the 2015 campaign, but he wants to sign with a contender. Having never won a title, he would be 40 years old by the time the playoffs roll around next season.
Still able to contribute even at his advanced age, look for Hunter to excel again next year. Whether he lands with the Tigers, Twins or another franchise, Hunter might be a piece to help push a team over the top.
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