It is happening once again. I have been tasked with covering the Detroit Tigers minor leagues. In being blessed to cover a sport I really enjoy not too mention covering a farm system I know really well, means new challenges. I intend to meet those challenges head on in an attempt to bring you, the fan and the reader closer to the Detroit Tigers organization.
The Lakeland Flying Tigers, Lakeland Fl., known as “Low A,” or sometimes “Single A.” This is close to a developmental league for players drafted who may need to fine tune their game. It is generally a pitching friendly league, as hitters tend to struggle.
The West Michigan Whitecaps, Grand Rapids Michigan, known as ‘High A,” this is where more in-depth development takes place. Pitchers no longer have the advantage, hitters have equal billing. Depending on the organization a player can spend two-full seasons at the “High A” level. Simply because players, all players are trying to be more consistent which occurs differently player to player.
Erie, PA 5/4/2019
CREDIT: Fred Vuich (Photo by Fred Vuich /Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)
(Set Number: X162637 TK1 )
Erie Seawolves, Erie PA, Known as “Double A,” this league is starting a player towards the final stages of development. This is advanced baseball at it’s core “Double A’ is designed to end the developmental phase of players. Pitching is really good, hitting is really good.
Toledo Mud Hens, Toledo Oh, “Triple A,” Development has for the most part stopped, sure players fine tune things as adjustments are needed. At the “Triple A” level it becomes all about being consistent. No player gets called up unless they show consistency in their game. At times a player does get called up, struggles and is sent back down to “Triple A” to refine and find the consistency they lost. It happened last season to Spencer Torkelson.
So there you have it. As spring training is underway and the Detroit Tigers are looking at all the organizations players, minor league rosters are unknown, that will become more clear as spring training goes on.
For all content on the Detroit Tigers prospects please head to Inside the Diamonds as I bring you the latest on Tiger prospects. I will continue to bring Detroit Tigers content right here.
