Duke Thomas
When Duke first popped up in the New 52, we were all convinced that he was set to become the next Robin. That never panned out, but he has been training and working with the Bat quite intensely – especially in Scott Snyder’s All-Star Batman.
Whenever a series focuses on a supporting character so strongly, it’s usually for a specific reason. Either Duke’s about to die, or he’s set to become the next Batman. Now, calm down, folks. We know he’s not the first choice or possibly even ready for such a responsibility, but that’s what would make his arc that much more interesting than others. When Bruce first started out, he wasn’t that experienced, either, and made lots of mistakes – something that gives a vulnerability to the character.
If Duke were to put on the fabled cowl, it would send shockwaves throughout the comic book industry and get everyone talking. Sure, a lot of fans would be pissed about it, but it would make for one damn interesting story.
Jean-Paul Valley
The last time that Azrael decided to play Batman it didn’t go down so well with Bruce and the others. He brutalized criminals and didn’t really care if one or two innocent bystanders got injured. Not exactly qualities that make for a likeable Dark Knight – or any hero for that matter.
In Rebirth’s continuity, Jean-Paul Valley has joined the Bat Family and largely behaved himself this time around. While there’s still undoubtedly something off about him and his intentions, he hasn’t gone full-blown, crazy Azrael…just yet.
Giving him another run as Batman could prove to be a nice tribute to Knightfall and allow the character to fall back to his nutty ways. It’s getting boring seeing all these characters play nice with each other, so it would be good if one of them breaks bad and brings some chaos into the mix.