Tigers' projected starting lineup

1. Ian Kinsler, 2B: He had one of his best seasons in 2016. In 2017, he'll be in the final year of his contract with the Tigers.

2. Tyler Collins, CF or ...

2. Mikie Mahtook, CF: Collins bats left-handed and Mahtook right-handed. They are the early favorites to platoon at the position, with JaCoby Jones a darkhorse.

3. Miguel Cabrera, 1B: Cabrera continues to be one of the most dangerous hitters in the game, even as he climbs into his mid-30s.

4. Victor Martinez, DH: Martinez battled injuries again last season, including playing through a hernia. If he's healthy in 2017, the lineup looks that much better.

5. J.D. Martinez, RF: His name was talked about a lot this offseason as a trade chip, but he stayed put -- for at least one more season, the last of his contract.

6. Justin Upton, LF: After a miserable first four-and-a-half months as a Tiger, there weren't many hotter hitters than Upton over the final month-and-a-half.

7. Nick Castellanos, 3B: He was having his finest season in the major leagues, until he suffered a broken hand late in the summer. He barely played again in 2016.

8. James McCann, C: He never seemed to be the same after an early season ankle injury in 2016. The offense is there, though.