Detroit Tigers' Colt Keith returns from injury as DH. What about playing 2nd base?

Colt Keith returns from injury as DH

Colt Keith, the Detroit Tigers' infielder, returned from injury on Saturday, July 29th, 2023, after missing the previous two games with a quad injury. Keith started at designated hitter and batted cleanup in the Tigers' 6-3 loss to the Chicago White Sox.

Keith went 1-for-4 with a double and a run scored in his return. He also drew a walk and struck out once.

Keith's return is a boost to the Tigers, who have been struggling offensively in recent weeks. The Tigers have lost eight of their last 11 games and have scored just 2.8 runs per game during that stretch.

What about playing 2nd base?

Keith has primarily played second base in his career, but he has also spent time at shortstop and third base. With the Tigers struggling defensively at second base, some have wondered if Keith could be a solution there.

Keith said he is willing to play wherever the Tigers need him, but he prefers to play second base.

"I'm a second baseman," Keith said. "That's my natural position. I'm comfortable there. I know the angles. I know the throws. I know the footwork. I'm just more comfortable there."

Tigers manager A.J. Hinch said he is not sure if Keith will play second base anytime soon.

"We'll see how it goes," Hinch said. "He's still getting his timing back at the plate. We'll see how he feels defensively. We'll see how the team is playing. We'll make a decision when we need to make a decision."

If Keith does end up playing second base, he will likely replace Willi Castro, who has struggled defensively this season. Castro has made 10 errors in 70 games at second base this season.

Keith is a better defender than Castro, but he is also less experienced. Keith has only played 10 games at second base in his career.

It remains to be seen if Keith will play second base for the Tigers this season. But if he does, he could be a valuable addition to the team's defense.