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Detroit Tigers: Five prospects who will make their debut in 2018

By Andy Patton

DETROIT, MI - APRIL 7: A general view of Comerica Park during the tribute to former owner Michael Ilitch during the opening day celebrations prior to that start of the game against the Boston Red Sox game on April 7, 2017 at Comerica Park in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MI - APRIL 7: A general view of Comerica Park during the tribute to former owner Michael Ilitch during the opening day celebrations prior to that start of the game against the Boston Red Sox game on April 7, 2017 at Comerica Park in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images) /
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Detroit Tigers
DETROIT, MI – OCTOBER 18: A detail of a Detroit Tigers hat with an official postseason logo is seen on the bat rack in the udgout againstthe New York Yankees during game four of the American League Championship Series at Comerica Park on October 18, 2012 in Detroit, Michigan. (Photo by Leon Halip/Getty Images) /

Mike Gerber

Gerber was an unheralded 15th round pick out of Creighton University in 2014. He has risen rapidly through Detroit’s system, rocketing up the prospect lists thanks to his pure hitting.

Gerber doesn’t do any one thing exceptionally, but he does a little bit of everything. He has posted double-digit home runs the last three seasons, with scouts expecting him to have 15-18 home run pop. He has also shown decent speed, stealing 10 bases last season and 16 in 2015.

Arguably most importantly, he can play all three outfield spots. MLB Pipeline projects him to be a future fourth outfielder, with the potential to develop into a regular. His power, speed and defense will make him a very valuable big leaguer, even if he’s not starting every day.

Gerber in 2018?

Gerber had a strong spring with the Tigers, going 7-for-20 (.350) in 15 games with a home run, three doubles and three walks. He was recently re-assigned to Triple-A camp, and will likely start the 2018 season in Toledo.

Detroit’s 11th ranked prospect should hold down a starting spot in Toledo throughout the season, and like Stewart has a good chance to make the Tigers at some point in 2018.

Stewart will likely be the first outfielder recalled should the Tigers need someone this season. However, Gerber will be a September call-up at the very least, and could be up in the Motor City before that.

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