Height
6'1"
Weight
205 lbs
Age
29
College
N/A
Draft
2018, Rd 5, #137
Experience
5 yrs
Bats/Throws
R/R
Fan Verdict
Grade this player:
Career StatsF
| Year | Team | GP | AVG | HR | RBI | OPS | SB | H |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Career |  | 467 | 0.25718102 | 36 | 153 | 0.70723593 | 23 | 385 |
Current Contract
Length
1 year
Total Value
$3.3M
Guaranteed
$2.0M
AAV
$3.3M/yr
Contract Value Index (CVI)
The Tigers' one-year, $3.3M deal with Matt Vierling earns a C+ CVI, reflecting a sensible if uninspiring move for organizational depth. Vierling profiles as a solid fourth outfielder who can handle center field defensively while providing middling offensive production — exactly the type of player who commands this salary range in today's market. Detroit's approach here makes sense given their competitive timeline; they're not quite ready to splurge on premium talent, but Vierling gives them a reliable veteran presence who can start if needed or provide quality depth behind their developing outfield core. The short-term commitment is particularly smart, as it allows the Tigers flexibility to reassess their needs next offseason while their farm system continues to mature. At $3.3M annually, this represents fair market value for a depth piece who brings defensive versatility and professional at-bats, though it's hardly the type of move that significantly moves the needle for a franchise still building toward contention.
Performance Analysis
Matt Vierling grades as an above average performer among MLB center fielders, earning a B Performance grade. He is hitting with a 0.258 batting average and a 0.709 OPS (below the league average of .720) this season. With 35 home runs and 150 RBI through 460 games (a 12-HR, 53-RBI pace over a full season), he brings limited power to the lineup. His 23 stolen bases add an elite speed dimension that creates additional offensive value. As a prime-age veteran at 29, Matt is a key contributor for the Tigers. A 460-game sample provides high confidence in this grade.
Recent Games
| Date | OPP | Result | AB | H | R | HR | RBI | BB | SO |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wed, 4/8 | @ MIN | L 6-8 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Sun, 4/5 | vs STL | L 3-5 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
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