Down on the Farm: Casey Crosby is Climbing the Prospect Rankings…Again

Casey Crosby missed the entire 2008 season due to Tommy John Surgery. In 2009, his only injury-free season, Crosby posted a 2.41 ERA in 24 starts, while averaging better than a strikeout per inning for the West Michigan White Caps. In 2010, the 6’5 southpaw also found himself on the shelf with elbow soreness in his left arm. Despite his success in 2009, his inability to stay healthy drew skepticism from both fans and media as the unfortunate injuries began to piled up.

Now healthy and back on the grind, Crosby is proving that he is still a top prospect for the Detroit Tigers. This season, Crosby is 2-2 with a 3.02 ERA in 47 2/3 innings over 9 starts for the AA-Erie SeaWolves. Five of his last six outings have resulted in quality starts and he has given up just one run over his last 18 innings. His 41 strikeouts suggest that he’s still possesses the ability to make hitters miss. Perhaps the only blemish so far this season is the walk ratio. His 26 free passes in 47 2/3 innings is still a tick high for my taste. Regardless, the results thus far have exceeded my lofty expectations.

After a small drop the previous season, the velocity has returned in his fastball. Reports on the development of his secondary pitches have been positive as well. The curveball and change-up are still generating a solid amount of ground-balls too. Batters are hitting just .224 against Crosby this season. Oddly enough, he’s holding right-handed batters a tad better than lefties (.279 L vs .206 R).

As I mentioned earlier Casey Crosby is a very important part of the Detroit Tigers farm system. If he continues to stay healthy and produce, Crosby could have a bright future with the Tigers. Coming off of an injury, you really couldn’t have asked for more from Crosby. His solid start is very encouraging and worth recognizing.

Keep an eye on Casey Crosby, as he continues to earn his stripes, down on the farm.

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