The Detroit Tigers have been on the lookout for speed, a quality they've been missing for quite some time. While they've had players who can run, the team has lacked a true speedster-a player who can turn any base into a potential steal. Enter Seth Stephenson, a center field prospect who might just be the homegrown talent to change that narrative.
At 25, Stephenson has been a whirlwind on the base paths, swiping 179 bases over the past three seasons in the minors. Standing at 5’9” and weighing 165 pounds, his build is tailored for speed rather than power.
Drafted in the seventh round from Tennessee, he was known for his defensive prowess in center field. Despite a slow start, Stephenson has made significant strides in his hitting, allowing his speed to become a game-changer.
In 2025, fans at West Michigan Whitecaps and Erie SeaWolves games felt the excitement every time Stephenson reached base. His ability to read pitchers and get quick jumps made it risky for catchers to even attempt a throw.
He's also developed more batspeed, evolving from a slap-hitter to a contact-oriented player who can leverage his speed effectively. Think of him as a potential right-handed Jarrod Dyson from the Royals' glory days.
With a 70-grade speed, Stephenson is not just fast but also a plus defender. His arm strength allows him to fit well in right field, complementing his abilities in center. His future in the majors could see him starting against left-handers or coming in as a pinch-hitter to bolster defense in tight games.
At the plate, Stephenson excels in making contact, driving the ball to all fields with authority. His speed turns routine singles into doubles, and over a quarter of his hits in 2025 were extra-base hits. Despite a modest power profile, his focus on line drives and gap power plays to his strengths, keeping him a constant threat on the base paths.
In 2025, Stephenson struck out just 14.2% of the time, even reducing his strikeouts after moving up to Double-A Erie. While his walk rates are average, his ability to put the ball in play keeps defenses on their toes.
Though power isn't his primary game, Stephenson's eight home runs in 2025 show he's added some pop. However, his approach remains grounded in making solid contact and maximizing his speed advantage. His increased batspeed helps him handle high velocity and turn on inside pitches, setting him up for a potential major league call-up as a bench weapon.
While a full-time role might not be in the cards, a part-time gig where Stephenson brings his defensive skills and base-stealing prowess is well within reach. Projections suggest he could rack up 25-30 stolen bases annually, contributing significantly on both offense and defense.
As Stephenson aims to solidify his place at Double-A and beyond, the Tigers might soon find him too valuable to keep in the minors. His journey to the majors could be just around the corner, bringing excitement and speed to the Tigers' lineup.