Detroit Tigers: Three More Breakout Candidates for the 2017 Season

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Sep 9, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers left fielder J.D. Martinez (28) receives congratulations from third baseman Nick Castellanos (9) after he hit a home run in the fifth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

Detroit Tigers players will soon report for Spring Training. With baseball season just around the corner, here are three more breakout candidates on Detroit’s roster to watch during the 2017 campaign.

Detroit Tigers fans have seen plenty of breakout performances over the past few years.

Despite fielding an established, veteran-laden team, other players have continued to establish themselves.

J.D. Martinez has quickly become one of baseball’s best right fielders since joining the Tigers, while Nick Castellanos turned in an excellent year at the plate in 2016.

Elsewhere, Bruce Rondon was perhaps the team’s best reliever last season.

The flame-throwing right-hander made good on his excellent potential.

Rondon paced all Detroit relief pitchers in strikeouts per nine innings, swinging strike percentage, FIP and SIERA.

What’s more, the 25-year-old also ranked second on the team among relievers in ERA while also landing in the top 10 in WAR (sixth) and xFIP (seventh).

Entering the 2017 season, the Detroit Tigers roster is mostly set. There will be a few battles for spots in center field, on the bench and in the bullpen, but that’s about it.

Despite that, these three Tigers players could experience a breakout year this season.

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