Detroit Tigers: How Origination’s Top Prospects are Faring in Arizona Fall League

Christin Stewart and JaCoby Jones

Christin Stewart

AFL Stats: 27 at-bats, seven total bases, four hits, three RBI, two runs scored, a home run and 10 strikeouts.

Stewart hasn’t had the easiest time so far in the AFL, striking out in 10 of his 27 at-bats. However seven of those punch outs came in his first three games. In the three games since, Stewart has gone down on strikes only three times.

Will Stewart Crack the Major League Roster in 2017?

Potentially. It will mostly depend on whether Detroit trades away any outfielders, not to mention how Stewart performs in the minors early next season.

Should Detroit hang on to both Justin Upton, Cameron Maybin and J.D. Martinez, Stewart is likely ticketed for another year of seasonings in the minors. However, if one or two of the group is moved, there is a chance.

If Stewart can produce at Double-A Erie (where he finished 2016), he has a real chance of making it to the Majors next year—even if it is just as a September call up.

JaCoby Jones

AFL Stats: 28 at-bats, 18 total bases, 12 hits, seven RBI, five runs scored, four stolen bases, three doubles, two walks, a home run and four strikeouts.

One of the AFL’s best players so far, Jones is showing why he could take on a more significant role with the Tigers next season.

The dynamic prospect currently leads the league in batting average and hits. He also ranks third and seventh in OPS and on-base percentage respectively. What’s more, the former Pittsburgh farmhand is third in the league in both stolen bases and slugging percentage.

What’s perhaps most encouraging about Jones’ stat line is that he has only struck out four times in eight games.

Will Jones Crack the Major League Roster in 2017?

Yes. In his brief stint last year, Jones showed what kind of impact he could make on the team. With the added experience from the AFL, he could eventually force his way into the starting lineup.

With Nick Castellanos entrenched at the hot corner, Jones’ playing time will likely come in the outfield. If any of Detroit’s starting outfielders from 2016 are dealt, there is a real chance JaCoby Jones could start on Opening Day for the Tigers.