MCB Prospect Recap: Young Hitters Bust Out

Here at MCB, we’ve thrown together a list of ten Detroit Tigers prospects that we’re going to follow and keep you updated on throughout the year. This isn’t meant to supplant your favorite prospect list, it’s merely meant as a collection of some of the top names that we hear about the most.

Week of May 7-14, 2011

It looks like Andy Oliver was no worse for wear after having his start pushed back a couple of days due to a sore hand (caused by playing with a sling shot). There’s nothing really negative you can say about the number’s he’s put up so far this year.

For as good as Oliver’s been, Charlie Furbush has been even a little bit better. But I don’t know if he has done (or even can do) enough to pass Oliver as the “first guy up” should the Tigers need a sixth starter. But that’s nothing more than speculation on my part.

The thing I like most about Turner’s line this season is that he’s only allowed 10 walks in almost 40 innings. He’s been lights out all year.

The strikeout numbers are there so far for Casey Crosby, but the walks are a big issue. He’s doing well though, considering his injury history. I’m looking at anything from Crosby as a bonus.

Chance Ruffin is doing what everyone expected him to do, and that’s pitch very well out of the bullpen.

Drew Smyly has been out of action for some time now. Perhaps we’ll replace him on the list with someone else, or perhaps we won’t.

Andy Dirks got the call up to the show late yesterday, so the next time he sees game action, it will be with the Tigers. He had a very nice week in Toldeo before the call came.

Bryan Holaday may never be a particularly great offensive catcher, but his season numbers are probably still OK. But a solid defensive catcher that can put up an OPS in the .750 range can still bring an organization a ton of value.

Daniel Fields struggled out to a slow start this year, but he’s been hitting the ball well recently. He’s hitting .297 with five extra base hits in his last ten games.

Nick Castellanos has pulled a complete 180 over the last ten days or so. The temperatures warmed up in West Michigan, and so did Nick’s bat. He showed everything in the offensive toolbox this week with a double, three triples, and a home run.

Like what you see here and want to stay informed on the happenings at MCB? Make sure to follow us on Twitter, friend us on Facebook, or grab our RSS feed.