The release of the entire catalog of De La Soul onto digital platforms this week was long overdue to fans of the hip hop group. Meanwhile, down in spring training, the Detroit Tigers could be seeing talent come from their draft classes from position players which, to a lot of Tigers fans, is long overdue. Over the last 10 years, it has been mainly pitchers who have been regulars on the 40-man roster. There’s Grayson Greiner, Mike Gerber, Derek Hill, Christin Stewart, Jacob Robson and a few others who have come up for a cup of coffee but were never regulars in the lineup.

The disclaimer that is this only spring training, and that fans should pump the brakes is implied, but it’s hard to ignore the signs.  Parker Meadows, the 2nd round draft pick in 2018, continues to impress in camp. He’s 4-for-11 so far with 2 home runs and an OPS of 1.364. A double off a lefty was an encouraging sign as it was hard contact as he struggled against lefties in 2022. Notice what he does with his hands here at this at-bat? Drops down to make the adjustment and drive it to right field.

Tarik Skubal (9th round) and Garrett Hill (26th round) are from the same class, but there’s one more pitcher who is also having a solid camp, and that is Adam Wolf. (5th round) While he may not make the team out of camp, based on his performance in 2022, he has lined himself for a potential call-up in 2023.

Other potential graduates

Riley Greene, the 5th pick overall in the 2019 draft is looking to have a full healthy season under his belt. Other contributors from the same class include Kerry Carpenter, Beau Brieske and Ryan Kreidler. But it’s one pick from the 2020 draft class in the 5th round who continues to turn heads. Colt Keith. He may not make the Opening Day roster, but he’s knocking pretty damn loud. The number one prospect over at Tigers Minor League Report continues to turn heads.

It may not be a total victory as outside of Riley Greene, none have become regulars yet, but for the first time in a while, there’s a buzz to the prospects in camp. Now, that potential has to turn into results, and we may see those soon.

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Photo Credit:Mike Watters-USA TODAY Sports