AL Central Rankings: Who stands tall as best 2nd baseman?

Ian Kinsler (Detroit Tigers)

Oct 5, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers second baseman Ian Kinsler (3) throws out Baltimore Orioles shortstop J.J. Hardy (2) (not pictured) during the third inning in game three of the 2014 ALDS baseball playoff game at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

2014 Stats
Batting Average: .275
HR: 17
RBI: 92
SB: 15
DWar:€“ 2.9
Fielding Percentage: .988

The stats do not lie and Kinsler was the best second baseman in the division last year.

His first season in Detroit resulted in his fourth All-Star game. He was among the league leaders in runs scored, hits and doubles. He was extremely durable in playing 161 games.

Kinsler does have a lot of wear on him at 32 years old, but he is probably one or two years away from his decline.

Defensively, Kinsler helped the Tigers immensely. He was the best defender when comparing DWar to his Central counterparts. He not only was the top second baseman in DWar, but he was No. 1 in all of baseball regardless of position.

You could make an argument that he may be the Tigers most important player. There is n€o™t a replacement in the farm system that could come close to replicating his production. He will be hitting in the top 3rd of the lineup and should put up similar numbers to last year and maintain his current position as the top 2nd baseman in the division and the league.