Detroit Tigers: 15 players who could go to the Arizona Fall League

Detroit Tigers Arizona Fall League Options: Fringe Prospects

Eric De La Rosa

2021 Stats

Odds of going to the Arizona Fall League: 50%

The Detroit Tigers thought enough of Eric De La Rosa to draft him in the 7th round in 2018, but his pro debut that year was rough (.605 OPS), and his 2019 season was even worse (.435 OPS at short-season Connecticut). The 24-year-old outfielder had a remarkable turnaround this year, though, hitting his way to Double-A Erie. De La Rosa is a lithe, plus athlete with good bat speed, better foot speed, and enough pop to keep pitchers honest. He likely tops out as an emergency outfielder, but the Tigers may want to be sure by sending him to Arizona to face quality pitching and work on his defense.

Andrew Navigato

2021 Stats

Odds of going to the Arizona Fall League: 30%

Andrew Navigato probably isn’t a big-leaguer. The Tigers took him in the 20th round in 2019 out of Oklahoma State, and he seems like a good org soldier. But, he offered solid offensive production this year while moving across three levels, and he played at least 20 games at four different positions. That sort of versatility is coveted on AFL rosters, and it’s a nice reward for a kid who had a strong season.

Austin Bergner

2021 Stats

Odds of going to the Arizona Fall League: 50%

Austin Bergner began the year in Low-A Lakeland and showed some promise, but it wasn’t until he was promoted to West Michigan and moved to the rotation (out of necessity) that he really took off. Bergner went 4-0 with a 2.90 ERA with the Whitecaps, but he still figures to be a reliever if he makes it to the Majors. The AFL will give him a good chance to work in that role again against more advanced hitters.

Brendan White

2021 Stats

Odds of going to the Arizona Fall League: 40%

White’s 2021 story is similar to Bergner’s, in that he began the season in the bullpen before moving to the West Michigan rotation out of need. He’s a sinker/slider pitcher with terrific spin rates on his offerings, but, Like Bergner, he probably fits best as a reliever. He has already topped 100 innings this year, so the club may shut him down for the year, but he might be able to handle another 10-15 frames as a reliever.