Jordan Tata

Tata was set to open last season at Double-A before an injury to Roman Colon prompted the Tigers to give him a look in their pen. He proved to be a bit overmatched and was sent to Triple-A where he posted solid but unspectacular numbers. He'll likely open the year at Triple-A where the Tigers will continue to have him work as a starter. They like his potential but unless he can cut down on the walks we won't be overly optimistic about his chances for success.

Tata was named Detroit's minor league pitcher of the year last season. The 24-year-old right-hander from Sam Houston State, who was a 16th-round draft pick in 2003, increased his velocity to the 93- to 95-mph range last season and the results were impressive. The real test of his prospect status will come this year in Double-A. He has an effective cutter but needs to improve his curveball.