MRI Comes Back Clean on Tigers Top Prospect Franklin Perez's Shoulder

Detroit Tigers fans have probably had as much reason to pay attention to their farm system as they have their Major League team this year, as their club has competed for the title of worst in the sport. Those who have been intently following Detroit's top young prospects got a real scare on Sunday, but it appears that they can breathe a sigh of relief –– for now.

After shoulder inflammation for young prospect Franklin Perez threatened to put a serious damper on the hopes of a successful rebuild, it appears that the Tigers dodged a bullet.

Perez, who was dealt to Detroit in the trade that sent superstar Justin Verlander to the Astros in 2017, is the Tigers third ranked prospect, and he's 62nd overall in the MLB Pipeline's prospect rankings. After injuries derailed his 2018 season, a serious shoulder problem could possibly have seriously damaged his chance at developing into the star the Tigers believe he can become.

While the 21-year-old hasn't seen much action in high-A ball this season, he's pitched well in his 2 starts since returning from injury, allowing 2 earned runs and striking out 6 in 7.2 innings of work.

While Perez's talent certainly indicates a promising future, his durability will be something to look out for as he progresses through the Minor Leagues.