Taken in the last round of the 2020 MLB Draft, 3B-Colt Keith’s development got off to an up and down. Playing for the Lakeland Flying Tigers of the FLC (Florida Complex League), Keith hit .320/.437/.422 in a very pitcher-friendly league. Keith was moved to the West Michigan Whitecaps, where he struggled. In 18 games with the Whitecaps, Keith’s numbers were .162/.250/.250. The following season, the Detroit Tigers again placed the young third basemen in West Michigan, where the results were better.
In just 48 games played due to a lengthy stint on IL, Keith’s numbers were .301/.370/.544. Keith has spent the previous offseason bulking up, which in turn saw an uptick in power. Detroit sent Keith to the Arizona Fall League, where in 19 games, he posted some solid numbers, .344/.463./.541 with three home runs.
Colt Keith has shown a good eye at the plate and has worked hard at spraying the ball around the baseball field. At 6′ 3″, 211 LBS, Keith showed some athleticism as he was placed at second base in Arizona. Third base appears to be is calling.
Currently ranked the #6 prospect in the Detroit Tigers pipeline, Keith received an invitation to spring training, where he has opened some eyes. Keith took part in batting practice against Matt Manning before he stepped on the field. Knowing Manning would be on the bump, Keith looked over the pitchers scouting report.
Colt Keith made a big impression on Tigers coaches during BP. It was then time for him to grab his glove and take to the infield, where the results were just as impressive. For being drafted in the last round, it looks like the Detroit Tigers got a steal.
There is currently a logjam at 3B in spring training. Keith will need at-bats. Having shown well at High A- ball, it would not be surprising to see Keith sent to the Erie Seawolves when camp breaks. His eye at the plate has made him a selective hitter with power and excellent defensive skills. He was once a bit pull-happy at the plate, but those days appear to be over.
How long Keith stays at Double-A is up to him. History shows a player that adjusts well, so it would not be surprising to see him advance to Triple-A at some point this season. If Keith continues to develop as well as he has, he should climb the Tigers prospect rankings.
