Detroit Tigers sign SS Jordy Mercer to minor league deal

The Detroit Tigers found themselves some infield depth on Thursday afternoon as they re-signed veteran shortstop Jordy Mercer to a minor league deal, according to Jon Heyman. While Niko Goodrum still appears to be the Tigers choice to start the season at every day shortstop, they evidently wanted to ensure they had options available if the need arose.

Mercer, was previously signed by the Tigers ahead of the 2019 season to be their everyday shortstop, after coming from seven years with the Pittsburgh Pirates. He dealt with injuries in the 2019 season, however, that saw him take several stints on the injured list, and appeared in only 74 games for the Tigers. He did hit .270/.310/.438 across those outings however.

Niko Goodrum wore many hats for the Tigers, and played 38 games at shortstop in 2019. In the 112 games he played last season he hit .248/.322/.421

While Goodrum does appear to remain the team’s choice for shortstop, Mercer will join the Tigers in Lakeland, FL for spring training next month, and will most likely be trying to prove that he still has what it takes to be considered a major league infielder.

Regardless, the 33-year-old is presently signed for a minor league deal, and by having him in Toledo the Tigers have found themselves with extra infield depth and a strong veteran presence in Mercer.

The specifics of the deal have not yet been announced.