Who should the Detroit Tigers protect from the Rule 5 draft?

The Detroit Tigers have until 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 14, to set their 40-man roster. They have already been proactive, adding right-handed pitcher Keider Montero and re-signing catcher Carson Kelly. However, the team must now decide on players in the minor leagues who could be selected in the Rule 5 draft, scheduled for Wednesday, Dec. 6, in Nashville. 

Montero was a no-brainer, as he led the system in strikeouts (160 in 127.1IP) over three levels in 2023. Similar to Sawyer Gipson-Long and others in the Tigers system, he too benefitted working on several new grips that were effective to go along with a curveball that spins over 3,000. 

While MLB Pipeline listed only four players who could be drafted based on their rankings among prospects, we will explore several intriguing names in the system who are also eligible. It's worth noting how recently, players becoming minor league free agents have garnered attention from multiple clubs. In contrast to previous years, when only a few might be picked up for minor league roster spots, left-hander Jack O'Loughlin, promoted from High-A West Michigan to Triple-A Toledo in 2023, signed with the Oakland Athletics with an invitation to spring training.

The progress of several players like Reese Olson, Gipson-Long and Jackson Jobe will garner some sort of attention and with some of the arms that are in the system now, it could be the case where a name could be stashed away in the bullpen. Let's start with the relief pitchers who are Rule 5 eligible. 

Position players

This seems pretty cut and dry as far as who the Tigers should keep on their 40-man roster. Among the players on the list that stand out are outfielder Roberto Campos, Trei Cruz and Dillon Dingler.

A few players who had solid seasons and made significant progress in the organization are Eliezer Alfonzo and Andrew Navigato. Alfonzo, who is likely to start the season on the 38-man roster as the team's starting catcher, quickly impressed Gabe Alvarez during their postseason run.

Prior to Navigato missing the rest of the season after suffering a grade four shoulder separation during a play against Bowie, he was having a solid season at the plate. He was hitting .280/.333/.505 with 11 home runs and 52 RBI.

Trei Cruz transitioned to centerfield at the start of the season and by its conclusion, emerged as the team's top outfield defender. While he remains capable of playing in the infield, his strong defense and range in the outfield were instrumental in Erie's postseason success.

Campos remains a work in progress, particularly regarding his defensive positioning and ability to hit offspeed pitches. In contrast, Dingler appears to be the most logical choice for inclusion on the Tigers' 40-man roster. According to the scouting report I prepared, Dingler exhibits considerable power when he connects, but this aspect of his game still lacks consistency.

Overall, he is the best defender in the system with his athletic ability and to call a good game. The SeaWolves rotation was noticeably better after he returned to injury. In order for him to get considered for a call-up, he would have to cut his strikeout rate and hit for consistency.

The Tigers' current catching depth at the higher levels includes Dingler and Alfonzo. Given this situation, it is likely that Detroit will take proactive measures. The team's direction will become clearer when a formal announcement is made.

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