Ron Gardenhire's Comment on Riley Greene Proves He'll Be Big-League Ready Sooner Than Expected

The Detroit Tigers took a chance on Riley Greene, a toolsy high school outfielder who supposedly needed a lot of seasoning in the minor leagues, in the 2019 MLB Draft. The latest update from manager Rod Gardenhire, however, makes it sound like it won't be long before we see Greene at Comerica Park.

Gardenhire said that Greene made a strong impression on the Tigers coaching staff this spring, and that could help accelerate his journey through the minor leagues.

Despite being just 19 years old, Greene has shot near the top of a loaded Tigers farm system. The kid was impressive in short-season and Single-A ball last year, and his standout performance in an abbreviated Spring Training gave a tantalizing glimpse of the type of player he could become.

Greene hit just five home runs in 57 minor league games, but his sweet swing, speed, and skill in the field have deservedly made him one of the jewels of the Tigers' minor league system.

Greene probably isn't going to make the jump to the majors right away, but fans should take comfort in the fact that he is further along in his development than even Gardenhire expected.