Detroit Tigers Free Agent Review-Daniel Pérez Rielo

Depending on what the Detroit Tigers have committed for international signings, perhaps Detroit should look at Daniel Pérez Rielo.

So, I am sure you may ask yourself is why I bring up a name that Detroit Tigers fans may have never heard of in Daniel Pérez Rielo.  Last week, I discussed Yoelkis Céspedes, who Detroit has expressed an interest in based on his size and playability in the outfield and his experience playing in the Cuban National Series and international competition.

Detroit lacks depth on the first base front with Frank Schwindel signing a minor league deal with Oakland and while we all believe that Spencer Torkelson will end up being the first baseman of the future, for now, he is listed at third base. Bryant Packard is now heading to first, which is great news to prospect fans as his ability to hit will help rise through the ranks. There is also Rey Rivera, Nick Ames, and Jake Holton but for now, they are just organizational talent for the system.

Now, onto 1B/OF Daniel Pérez Rielo, who is in the Dominican Republic, trying to find a team to sign with per first reported by Francys Romero. There is not a lot out there but check out his swing and a few clips.

Here is a highlight real from his time playing for Spain.

Still growing into a frame that stands over 6 feet, he was playing the outfield for Barcelona in the Spanish league. He has dual citizenship between Cuba and Spain so which allowed him to play overseas and represented the Spanish National team.

He recently worked with Mickey Stanley in improving his approach at the plate. If that name rings a bell, he is the father of Michael Brantley and worked with the San Francisco Giants and the Toronto Blue Jays as a hitting coach.  He is currently a private instructor in Florida and he helped his son with his swing.

As far as if he will be an impact player, who knows but for the Detroit Tigers, just looking at his upside in hitting to all fields and he is a left-handed hitter, if they have the money in their international pool money, they should take a look. This is a bat that seems like it will have room to grow. Take away the highlight reel and check out his swing or YouTube his name and see some game action. What does Detroit have to lose?