As the 2025 Major League Baseball season approaches, the Detroit Tigers are preparing to open the campaign with optimism and excitement. The franchise, which has gone through a lengthy rebuilding process, is poised for a fresh start with a new generation of players taking the field. With significant strides made over the past few years in terms of player development and front-office decisions, the Tigers have set high expectations for the season ahead.
As part of the buildup to the 2025 season, the Detroit Tigers have officially announced their starting lineup for the highly anticipated Opening Day game. This announcement is especially meaningful because it represents a new era for the Tigers, one that is built on youth, energy, and a renewed commitment to competitive baseball. With an infusion of talent from their farm system, key acquisitions, and experienced veterans, the Tigers’ Opening Day lineup is a mix of the future and the present. Here’s a breakdown of the players who will take the field for the Tigers on Opening Day 2025.
1. Riley Greene – Center Fielder (Lead-Off)
The face of the Detroit Tigers’ future, Riley Greene, will kick off the 2025 season as the lead-off hitter and starting center fielder. After an impressive 2024 campaign, Greene has solidified himself as one of the Tigers’ most exciting young talents. Known for his advanced plate discipline, keen eye for pitch selection, and ability to drive the ball to all fields, Greene has all the tools to be a top-tier player in Major League Baseball.
Greene’s ability to get on base, coupled with his speed, makes him a natural choice to lead off. His aggressive yet controlled approach to hitting allows him to set the tone for the rest of the Tigers’ lineup. As one of the most promising young players in Detroit’s rebuild, Greene’s performance on Opening Day and throughout the 2025 season will be key to the Tigers’ success.
2. Spencer Torkelson – First Baseman (Second)
Batting in the second spot is Spencer Torkelson, the highly touted former first overall pick in the 2020 MLB Draft. Torkelson has been a cornerstone of the Tigers’ rebuilding efforts, and his power potential has made him one of the most anticipated players in Detroit’s lineup. After struggling in his early seasons, Torkelson showed significant growth in 2024, showcasing his natural ability to hit for power while improving his contact skills.
As the second hitter, Torkelson will be asked to drive in runs and provide a power threat to protect the lead-off hitter, Riley Greene. With his combination of raw power and increasing plate discipline, Torkelson could be poised for a breakout season in 2025. The Tigers’ hopes for offensive firepower are largely dependent on Torkelson’s ability to deliver in clutch situations.
3. Kerry Carpenter – Right Fielder (Third)
Kerry Carpenter, the 2024 breakout star for the Tigers, will bat third in the lineup as the right fielder. Carpenter enjoyed a stellar 2024 season, displaying impressive power and consistent bat-to-ball skills. His ability to hit for average and drive in runs from the middle of the order makes him a perfect fit for the third spot. Carpenter’s development in 2024 gave fans plenty of reason to believe that he could be one of the most important offensive players for Detroit in 2025.
Known for his raw power, Carpenter provides a much-needed middle-of-the-order presence for the Tigers. His ability to get on base and drive in runs will be crucial to setting up scoring opportunities for the Tigers throughout the season. With Torkelson and Greene ahead of him in the lineup, Carpenter has the chance to provide consistent run production.
4. Akil Baddoo – Left Fielder (Cleanup)
Akil Baddoo, the electric outfielder known for his speed, athleticism, and ability to hit for power, will be the cleanup hitter in 2025. After struggling in previous seasons, Baddoo showed signs of a renaissance in 2024, improving his overall offensive production. His blend of speed and power makes him a dangerous weapon for opposing pitchers, and he has the potential to hit for both average and power in the middle of the lineup.
Baddoo’s ability to drive in runs and set the stage for the bottom half of the lineup is critical to the Tigers’ offensive success. Batting cleanup, he’ll be expected to provide extra-base hits and create scoring opportunities with his speed on the base paths. His dynamic skill set will be crucial as the Tigers look to turn the corner and challenge for postseason contention.
5. Javier Báez – Shortstop (Fifth)
Javier Báez, the veteran shortstop, will bat fifth for the Tigers on Opening Day. Báez, a two-time All-Star and former Gold Glove winner, is known for his electrifying defense, high energy, and aggressive offensive approach. Though his offensive consistency has been a point of frustration in recent years, Báez remains one of the most dynamic players in MLB when he’s on his game. He brings a level of flair and excitement to the Tigers, both in the field and at the plate.
Báez’s role as the fifth hitter is crucial, as he provides a stabilizing presence in the lineup. His ability to hit for power and speed will give the Tigers a much-needed offensive threat in the middle of the order. As one of the team’s most experienced hitters, Báez will need to stay consistent and play a key role in Detroit’s offensive productivity.
6. Jonathan Schoop – Second Baseman (Sixth)
The sixth spot in the lineup is filled by Jonathan Schoop, the seasoned veteran second baseman. Schoop, known for his power from the right side, has been a steady contributor to the Tigers’ lineup for several seasons. Although his offensive numbers have fluctuated in recent years, he remains a reliable bat who can provide power and experience in the middle of the order.
Schoop’s presence in the sixth spot allows the Tigers to add additional depth to their lineup. With his ability to hit for extra bases, especially against right-handed pitchers, Schoop will be a key contributor to driving in runs. His experience also provides leadership to the younger players around him, helping to guide them through the ups and downs of a long season.
7. Eric Haase – Catcher (Seventh)
Eric Haase, one of the Tigers’ most valuable and versatile players, will bat seventh and serve as the team’s starting catcher. Haase is known for his power potential behind the plate, providing a legitimate offensive threat at the catcher position. His ability to hit home runs and extra-base hits makes him a key part of the Tigers’ middle-of-the-order depth.
Behind the plate, Haase is a steady presence, managing the Tigers’ pitching staff while also providing offensive production. His combination of power and defensive stability makes him one of the more important players in the lineup. Haase’s ability to maintain consistency at the plate while handling the Tigers’ young pitching staff will be a critical factor in the team’s success in 2025.
8. Miguel Cabrera – Designated Hitter (Eighth)
The iconic Miguel Cabrera will take the field for his final season as the Tigers’ designated hitter. Cabrera, a future Hall of Famer and one of the most accomplished hitters in MLB history, continues to be an important part of the Tigers’ roster despite being in the twilight of his career. Though he may not have the same offensive firepower that he once did, Cabrera’s leadership, mentorship, and ability to provide key hits in clutch situations are invaluable.
Batting eighth, Cabrera will have the opportunity to contribute in a more limited role, but still make significant contributions with his bat. His presence in the lineup gives the Tigers a wealth of experience and an opportunity to impart his knowledge to the younger players. While his physical tools may have declined, Cabrera’s baseball IQ and ability to make adjustments remain assets for Detroit.
9. Nick Maton – Third Baseman (Ninth)
Finally, the Tigers’ starting third baseman for Opening Day 2025 will be Nick Maton, who is expected to bat ninth in the lineup. Maton is a steady defensive presence at third base, known for his ability to make all the routine plays while also providing solid offensive production in a supporting role. His versatility and ability to contribute both with the glove and at the plate make him an important piece for the Tigers.
As the ninth hitter, Maton will be expected to help turn over the lineup and create opportunities for the top of the order. His ability to get on base and make contact with the ball will be vital in setting up the Tigers’ more powerful hitters. While not known for his power, Maton’s contributions in key moments will be crucial to the team’s success.
