In a move that showcases their commitment to strengthening their pitching staff, the Detroit Tigers have chosen right-handed pitcher Michael Massey with the 114th pick in the 2024 MLB Draft.

Massey, who came from the esteemed Wake Forest pitching corps, emerged as one of the top relief prospects in the nation after an impressive 2023 season. As a sophomore, he boasted an extraordinary 16.6 strikeouts per nine innings in 27 relief appearances, cementing his reputation as a dominant force on the mound.

However, during his junior year, Massey experienced some setbacks when he shifted to the starting rotation. While he still maintained an impressive strikeout rate, he faced challenges with diminished stuff and ended the season with a 4.76 ERA in ten starts. Nagging injuries further hindered his performance and occasionally took a toll on his mental state.

Despite these setbacks, Massey's fastball remains one of his most effective weapons. Although not known for overpowering speed, his fastball sits between 93-94 miles per hour and occasionally touches 97 mph. Its effectiveness lies in his deceptive delivery, which makes it difficult for hitters to anticipate the ball's trajectory. Additionally, Massey's fastball induces an impressive average of 20 inches of vertical break, as reported by Baseball America.

Complementing his formidable fastball is a slider that has received unanimous praise from scouts and experts. Its late-breaking action and lower velocity in the low 80s have proven to be a dominant pitch, capable of generating swings and misses. Massey's curveball, however, has sparked some debate among analysts, with some expressing doubts about its consistency.

As a starter, Massey experimented with a changeup, which proved to be his weakest pitch. Although he briefly contemplated adding a splitter to his repertoire, it ultimately did not materialize. Both the splitter and curveball may take a backseat in his pitch array for the time being once he transitions to the professional level.

While the Tigers may initially attempt to refine and maximize Massey's potential as a starting pitcher, it is widely believed that his future lies in relief. With the potential to become a leverage reliever, Massey could strengthen the team's bullpen and provide crucial support during high-pressure situations.

The Tigers' next pick is slated for the 147th overall selection, as they continue to build a promising roster for the future.