Detroit Tigers: Four Spring Training Invitees Most Likely To Make Opening Day Roster

Joe Jimenez

Age: 21
Position: Relief Pitcher
Seasons of Major League Experience: 0

Another pitcher with a chance at making the Detroit Tigers bullpen, Joe Jimenez could make his Major League debut early in the 2017 season.

The top prospect reached Triple-A last season and could eventually form a frightening closing combination with Bruce Rondon.

In 126 career minor league innings, Jimenez has fanned 204 batters, good for a robust 13.0 strikeouts per nine innings. The pitcher’s ERA also sits at a sparkling 1.59.

In addition to striking out batters almost at will, the reliever also has done well to limit damage. His ERA is obviously a bright spot, Jimenez has allowed just 40 walks in his four seasons as a professional. In that same time span, he’s only been tagged for four home runs.

Still just 21, the future is extremely bright for Jimenez, who throws a blazing fastball. If he can dominate with his off-speed offerings, the sky is the limit where the right-hander is concerned.

With Rondon, Shane Greene, Alex Wilson and Mark Lowe in camp, Jimenez will certainly face competition in establishing himself as a key reliever. However, the talent is there.

Other right-handed options include Myles Jaye, Angel Nesbitt, Logan Kensing, Dustin Molleken, Mujica, Warwick Saupold and Anibal Sanchez.