Detroit Tigers: Organizational Depth or Lack Thereof?

The Detroit Tigers lack depth in their farm system

The Detroit Tigers have the 22nd-ranked pipeline in Major League Baseball, according to mlb.com. While that is concerning to a team trying to turn the corner, it seems as if the pipeline of the Tigers is not focused on spreading out the talent.

The Detroit Tigers organization is heavy in the pitching and shortstop department. Although those positions are important, the organization needs more prospects and depth at each position. Not every one of these prospects is going to work out and it gets slim if all of the young talents is at one or two positions.

The Detroit Tigers are lacking in a big-time, MLB-ready power hitter. With Spencer Torkelson and Riley Greene certain to grab a spot in the opening day lineup, the focus goes to who will be next in line. The Tigers do have some nice talent but are any of them ready to grab the opportunity and run with it? Below are the Detroit Tigers' top 50 prospect numbers by position:

14 right-handed pitching prospects,13 shortstops, 10 outfielders, 4 left-handed pitchers, 4 third basemen, 2 second basemen, 2 catchers, and 1 first basemen.

For the Tigers to have one third baseman, two second basemen, and two catchers among their top 50 prospects is concerning. Catcher is one of the more critical and important positions in the game. First basemen are generally the power hitters, and the shortstop are critical for infield outs. The Detroit Tigers have been rebuilding for a while now and, by the looks of it, could be in for another long-term build as they retool thier prospect depth.

With 14 right-handed pitchers, about half of them would make the team as a starter, bullpen help, or a closer. With shortstop, one could see four prospects making an impact. There are pieces here for trade but how safe are these players? How many will make it to the Major Leagues, let alone make an impact?

For the Detroit Tigers to be successful, they need a better selection fo prospect depth. The Tigers need depth across the board and not just in one or two areas. Miguel Cabrera is in his final season and the Tigers have few options down the line to replace him in position only. The Detroit Tigers could be in for a shock when they see how their prospect pool is laid out.