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Chances are that if you’re reading this article you already know of names such as Nick Castellanos and Avisail Garcia. Both top prospects in the Detroit Tigers organization with great potential and expectations. Here are some other names that you should get to know in 2013.
Casey Crosby is a 24-year old left handed pitcher who some of the diehard fans already know from his short stint with the major league club. He started three games for the Tigers in 2012 and had a 1-1 record. Most of his games came in triple-A where he finished with a 7-9 record with a 4.01 ERA in 22 starts for the Toledo Mud Hens. He’s regarded as the top pitching prospect for the Tigers after the departure of Jacob Turner this last season. Look for him to stay mostly in the minors in 2013 but he could be a nice option if there is an injury to one of the starters.
Tyler Collins who played all of 2012 in elevated single-A ball has gotten an invitation to spring training with the big league club down in Lakeland. Last year with the Lakeland Flying Tigers the 22-year old outfielder hit for a .290 average with seven home runs and 66 RBI’s. Like most of the non-roster invitees that are invited to spring training, he most likely won’t make the team out of the spring, but you never know. There could be a bench spot open for an outfielder but there are a lot of options such as Quintin Berry and Castellanos. One thing is for certain though I’m excited to see him play once spring gets here.
Michael Morrison pitched in double-A Erie in 2012 racking up 63 innings in 40 games with a 4-3 record. The 25-year old pitcher has been invited to spring training with the Tigers, and could be possibly competing for a spot in the rather weak bullpen. Morrison had a 3.14 ERA with 72 strikeouts as well in 2012. He seems to have some potential to be sixth or seventh inning guy and honestly that’s what the Tigers need more of. It should be interesting to see him perform this spring.
Last but certainly not least there is Eugenio Suarez the 21-year old shortstop that played all last year with single-A West Michigan. He hit .288 with 67 RBI’s and scored 82 runs for the Whitecaps in 2012. Some think he could be the most underrated prospect the Tigers have and I agree. He seems to be a pretty good hitter and solid defensively who can steal a few bases. He stole 21 last year, and that could be something that earns him a bench spot sometime in 2013 especially if Ramon Santiago doesn’t perform like he needs to.
With a solid major league roster there aren’t a whole lot of spots open at the moment for young talent but you can be sure that in the coming years you will be hearing these names more and more. The Tigers have one of the youngest farm systems in the league packed with some great talent and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for them.
