$Predicting Detroit Tigers\' 2017 Opening Day Starting Rotation$

Predicting Detroit Tigers' 2017 Opening Day Starting Rotation

By Brad Faber

Although the 2016 MLB season has yet to even reach the All-Star break, it is never too early to begin looking ahead to the future, especially with a team that has the type of exciting, young talent the Detroit Tigers do. Here is a prediction of what the Tigers’ 2017 opening day rotation might look like.

$Predicting Detroit Tigers\' 2017 Opening Day Starting Rotation$

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Justin Verlander — Although he was recently roughed up by the Cleveland Indians, Justin Verlander has proven that he still has plenty left in the tank. The 33-year-old had a 1.93 ERA over a seven-start stretch earlier this year and should continue to do solid work.

Jordan Zimmermann — In his first season after signing a five-year, $110 million deal, Jordan Zimmermann is currently 9-4 with a 3.81 ERA and a 1.20 WHIP. He should continue to be a solid force at the top of the rotation.

Michael Fulmer — One of the brightest stories of the Tigers' 2016 campaign, Michael Fulmer has gone 7-2 with a 2.40 ERA and a 1.16 WHIP so far. It is certainly looking like he is in the big leagues to stay.

Daniel Norris — Finally back with the big league club, Daniel Norris impressed over eight starts with the Tigers last season and was decent in his first start of 2016. Norris should be a strong candidate to crack the 2017 rotation next spring.

Mike Pelfrey — Signed through next season, Mike Pelfrey should give the team an acceptable No. 5 starter. Of course, Anibal Sanchez is under contract through next season as well, so it will be interesting to see if he can wiggle his way back into the rotation, too.

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Detroit Tigers

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