Detroit Tigers Highlight Impressive Organizational Success from Majors to Rookie League
The Detroit Tigers took a moment on Monday to spotlight the strength of their minor league system, giving a nod to the impressive performance of their affiliates from Triple-A down to rookie ball.
Infielder Colt Keith, now contributing at the major league level, was playing for the Triple-A Toledo Mud Hens as recently as June 28, 2023.
Currently, the Tigers are thriving in the 2025 MLB season with a stellar .630 winning percentage (34-20), the best record in the American League as of Memorial Day.
However, it’s not just the big-league club making waves. The organization’s minor league affiliates are all performing above .500, a rare and notable achievement. The Toledo Mud Hens are 27-24, Double-A Erie SeaWolves are 30-15, High-A West Michigan Whitecaps also hold a 30-15 record, Single-A Lakeland Flying Tigers are 26-18, and the Florida Complex League team stands at 10-6. Altogether, the affiliates have combined for a 157-98 record (.616).
Following nearly a decade without postseason play, the Tigers made a breakthrough last year, reaching the ALDS before falling to the Cleveland Guardians in five games. Their resurgence is anchored by ace Tarik Skubal, last year’s AL Cy Young winner, and a team that ranks second in the league in runs scored and third in ERA.
Detroit’s farm system is also drawing attention, boasting five MLB Pipeline Top 100 prospects. Catcher/outfielder Thayron Liranzo (No. 86) plays in Double-A Erie. Three standouts at High-A include outfielder Max Clark (No. 7), infielder Kevin McGonigle (No. 26), and first baseman/catcher Josue Briceno (No. 81). Meanwhile, shortstop Bruce Rainer (No. 47) is developing at the Single-A level.
While these young stars are still developing, the Tigers’ current roster looks poised for a postseason push, backed by one of the deepest and most successful farm systems in baseball.
