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Detroit Tigers Daniel Stumpf A Popular Rule V Target

By David Hill

Mar 25, 2016; Clearwater, FL, USA; Philadelphia Phillies relief pitcher Daniel Stumpf (53) pitches during the sixth inning of a spring training baseball game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Bright House Field. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 25, 2016; Clearwater, FL, USA; Philadelphia Phillies relief pitcher Daniel Stumpf (53) pitches during the sixth inning of a spring training baseball game against the Toronto Blue Jays at Bright House Field. Mandatory Credit: Reinhold Matay-USA TODAY Sports /
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A year after being selected by the Philadelphia Phillies in the Rule V Draft, Daniel Stumpf was selected again, this time by the Detroit Tigers.

One could forgive Daniel Stumpf if the Rule V Draft gave him a bit of a case of nerves. After all, he had been drafted by the Philadelphia Phillies from the Kansas City Royals last year, and appeared in seven games before being returned. Once again, Stumpf was made available in the Rule V Draft, and was selected by the Detroit Tigers this year.

Based on his minor league track record, it is understandable as to why the lefty reliever would be a popular choice. In five minor league seasons, he has posted a 3.22 ERA and a 1.161 WHiP, striking out 337 batters in 341 innings. While he may not be a closer, with only 11 saves total, he could certainly be a useful part of the bullpen.

It is easy to understand why Stumpf would perform well in a bullpen role. His fastball may only average 92 MPH, but he generates a great deal of swings and misses on it. His slider is decent, although it breaks more like a hard curve than a true slider. Stumpf also throws a changeup, which tends to result in a lot of flyballs.

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However, there are concerns when it comes to Stumpf. His command can be spotty at times, as he will leave pitches over the middle of the plate. He has not walked as many batters in recent years, but with his middling to below average secondary pitches, he can get hit hard if they are left over the plate.

That was the case in his brief stint with the Phillies last year. In his seven games spanning five innings, Stumpf allowed six runs on nine hits and two walks. Likewise, there is concern about Stumpf going forward, as he was suspended 80 games due to a positive PED test for a steroid used by the East Germany Olympic teams.

Nonetheless, Stumpf is a worthwhile gamble for the Detroit Tigers. For the $100,000 cost to make the pick, the Tigers can get a look at a pitcher who may be able to serve as a lefty specialist in the Majors. If it does not work out, he can always be offered back to the Royals, or they could look to make a trade in order to keep Stumpf in the minors.

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Daniel Stumpf has the potential to be an interesting part of the Detroit Tigers bullpen. For the price of the Rule V pick, it is certainly a worthwhile gamble.

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