Inside the Article:
Tigers’ farm system boasts top 3B prospect.
The Detroit Tigers farm system has a few hidden gems, including a third baseman named to MLB.com’s top-10 third basemen list. Colt Keith, a left-handed bat and fifth-round selection by the Tigers in 2020, is expected to make his MLB debut in 2024 but could potentially press the issue in 2023.
Why it Matters
The Tigers have a need at third base, and Keith could fill that hole. While he’s not ready yet, some seasoning in 2023 could lead to a debut toward the end of the season, or immediately in 2024. He could press the issue, should he continue to hit projections, control the strike zone, and develop a little pop in the minor leagues.
- The Tigers wanted to get “more left-handed” in the infield, and Keith bats lefty.
- Keith is currently the Tigers’ #6 rated prospect by MLB.com and the #2 overall prospect for the Tigers by Fangraphs.
Colt Keith Inside the Numbers
- In 2022, he recorded a 10.2% walk rate in 216 at-bats for West Michigan.
- He slashed .301/.370/.544 and had a .404 wOBA, and a 150 wRC+, including an insane .343 BABIP, indicating his ability to hit the ball to all fields.
- He hit nine home runs to go along with 38 RBI, and a 2:1 K/BB ratio.
The Bottom Line
Colt Keith, a left-handed third baseman in the Tigers farm system, has been named to MLB.com’s top-10 third basemen list. He is a potential option for the Tigers and is expected to make his MLB debut in 2024. Keith’s strong numbers in the minors make him a player to watch in the future.