Detroit Tigers: Five Breakout Candidates to Watch in 2017

Daniel Norris

Age: 23

Position: Starting Pitcher

Despite being limited to just 106 innings (22 appearances, including 21 starts) with the Detroit Tigers, Daniel Norris has showcased the ability that made him the center piece of the David Price deal.

Since joining the Tigers, the starter has logged a 3.48 ERA with 8.3 strikeouts per nine innings.

Purely based on his numbers so far in the Major Leagues so far, Norris is a candidate to break out next season. However, Norris’ improved strikeout rate from 2015 to 2016 suggests he’s continuing to grow as a pitcher.

The former top prospect fanned 6.8 batters per nine innings in 60 innings during the 2015 season. In just 9.1 more innings, Norris improved significantly upon the number. All told, he struck out 9.2 batters per nine frames last year.

If he can continue to post high strikeout rates, the ex-Blue Jay will be well on his way in establishing himself as a frontline starting pitcher.

What’s more, Norris also managed to keep his walk down. The starter lowered his walks per nine innings from 4.6 in 2015 to 2.9 in 2016.

Last season saw Michael Fulmer dominate the headlines, but come 2017, it could be Daniel Norris receiving attention.