Detroit Tigers: Minor League, Statistical Standouts So Far

Jairo Labourt
Age: 23
Positon: Relief Pitcher
Affiliate: Advanced-A Lakeland Flying Tigers
Throws: Left-Handed

One of three pitchers acquired from the Toronto Blue Jays for David Price—you may have heard of the other two, Matt Boyd and Daniel Norris—Labourt initially struggled as a starting pitcher in the Detroit organization.

The hard-throwing southpaw turned in a 6.31 ERA in seven starts down the stretch in 2015, and posted a 5.26 number in 87.1 frames (30 appearances) last season.

However, 30 appearances included 18 relief outings and nine instances where Labourt finished the game.

The switch to the bullpen seems to be favoring Labourt, who has allowed just five hits, a walk and an earned run in three appearances.

What is perhaps most encouraging is that the southpaw has struck out 10 in seven innings.

Victor Alcantara
Age: 24
Positon: Relief Pitcher
Affiliate: Double-A Erie SeaWolves
Throws: Right-Handed

Similar to Labourt, Alcantara spent much of his career working as a starting pitcher.

Also similar to Labourt, Alcantara came to Detroit via trade in the Cameron Maybin deal.

The hard-throwing reliever is finding success so far in the bullpen in 2017.

In four outings for Double-A Erie, Alcantara has a 1.00 ERA. He’s thrown nine innings and allowed eight hits, two walks and a run. He’s also punched out five.