Picking the best Detroit Tigers in club history wasn't always easy given all the stars who have worn the Old English D during the franchise's 117 seasons. (That's a long time!) There were some no-brainers such as a couple of Hall of Fame outfielders but other positions were much more difficult.
We based our choices primarily with statistics although lifetime achievement wasn't necessarily the biggest factor. Somebody who was outstanding for five or six seasons might be more worthy than a guy who spent his entire career with the Tigers. Longevity only counts for so much.
We selected one fielder at each position – and tried to take defense into consideration whenever possible – in addition to a right-handed starting pitcher, a left-handed starter, two relievers, a DH and a manager.