The Tigers added seven minor-league prospects to their 40-man roster Wednesday, a move designed to protect them from the upcoming Rule 5 draft.
The biggest name is probably pitcher Kyle Lobstein, who was acquired from Tampa in last year's Rule 5 draft. The 24-year-old went 13-7 with a 3.27 ERA while splitting 26 starts between Double-A Erie and Triple-A Toledo. He could provide injury protection for the major-league pitching staff this season.
Detroit also added Toledo first baseman Jordan Lennerton to the 40-man roster. At 27 and blocked by Prince Fielder and Victor Martinez, Lennerton doesn't have an obvious role with the Tigers, but he played well enough last year to earn a spot in the Futures Game in New York and won a minor-league Gold Glove award. Lennerton, who is currently playing in Puerto Rico's Winter League, will probably end up as a piece in a trade for a veteran.
Double-A outfielder Daniel Fields has been long considered a top prospect, but injuries have slowed his development. Still only 22, he hit .284 with doubles power for Erie, playing alongside another highly rated prospect, shortstop Eugenio Suarez. Suarez, also 22, hit .253 with limited power for the SeaWolves, and is thought to be a possible long-term solution at second base if Hernan Perez doesn't work out.
Detroit also added Toledo reliever Justin Miller and two players from Single-A Lakeland, pitcher Jose Valdez and outfielder Steven Moya, to the roster. They still have one open spot on the 40-man roster.
