Three biggest Detroit Tigers spring training storylines

1. Do Spencer Torkelson and Riley Greene make the Detroit Tigers opening day roster?

The fourth and fifth-best prospects in the game are in the Tigers’ system according to MLB Pipeline, and both are vying to be a part of the parent club to start 2022. They are both getting a long look and Avila even commented on the issue; saying they aren’t looking for anything in particular, but they’ll know Torkelson and Green are ready when they see it.

He also discussed service time manipulation; stating that he understands that games at the beginning of the season are just as important as the stretch–that he is not arrogant enough to risk their playoff goal to try for an extra year of service time.

The service time issue was only half-addressed as part of this new collective bargaining agreement. If a player finishes within a certain threshold in the Rookie of the Year voting, that club would be awarded an extra draft pick. For the record, neither Casey Mize nor Tarik Skubal would’ve qualified last season.

I sent out a poll into the social ethers to get the opinion from fans. The results were as follows:

The need is certainly there. The organization would prefer Baddoo at a corner spot opposed to centerfield, making room for Greene–and Cabrera has already spoken on his willingness to DH for Torkelson to make his way into the lineup; a stark contrast to his previous stance about playing in the field.

I believe saving a complete flop spring or injury, both will be on the opening day roster. I’m curious if the organization aligns with my semi-wishful thinking.