Niko Goodrum said the word "hit" seven times in a row Tuesday to emphasize his priorities leading up to the 2021 season. It's a task he didn't accomplish for the Detroit Tigers last year, finishing with a .184 batting average in 43 games.
The 28-year-old finally found a primary home at shortstop but, following his return from an oblique injury, was promptly moved to second base as Willi Castro emerged in his absence. (Castro, 23, had a .349 average in 36 games.)
New manager AJ Hinch refers to Goodrum as a super-utility player, praising his versatility and Gold Glove-caliber defense.