With the promotion of Max Clark, it’s a good thing the Tigers made the Tarik Skubal deal — otherwise they might have been staring at a bottom‑five minor‑league system. But when you add players like Zyhir Hope, River Ryan, and Brady Smith, things suddenly look far more promising. Hope has legitimate superstar potential, particularly as a fantasy asset, and I still believe Ryan can pitch at the top of a rotation if he can ever stay healthy. Smith is also sneaky good and could develop into a solid mid‑rotation starter.
After those three — and Josue Briceno — things get dicey. Bryce Rainer posted a 36% strikeout rate, Thayron Liranzo hit .211, Jaden Hamm didn’t pitch, and Franyerber Montilla has barely played in two seasons due to a knee injury.
Still, there’s enough here to give the Tigers a solid mid‑pack ranking.
Prospect Snapshot
- Top Prospect: Zyhir Hope
- Biggest Mover: Brady Smith
- Biggest Disappointment: Thayron Liranzo
- Emerging Prospect: Angel De Los Santos
