Kevin Whelan

The catcher-turned-closer prospect spent another year adjusting to life on the hill in 2007, beginning the year at Double-A Trenton and finishing there after recovering from a demotion to High-A Tampa. Whelan continued to post impressive strikeout numbers (11.26 K/9IP), but his command became more erratic against more advanced competition. He'll likely start 2008 back at Double-A, but he's got the raw ability to move quickly once it all comes together.

Whelan, a catcher-turned-closer at Texas A&M, is still learning to pitch but what he has learned so far looks impressive. He struck out more than a batter per inning at high-A Lakeland last year and made significant strides on cutting down his walks in the second half of the season. The Yankees acquired Whelan from the Tigers this winter as part of the Gary Sheffield deal and will probably start the reliever at Double-A. If he continues to dominate he could see time with the Yankees as soon as this season but a target arrival of 2008 is probably more realistic.

Detroit selected Whelan, a catcher-turned-closer at Texas A&M, in the fourth round of the 2005 draft. He has a four-seam fastball that peaks at 95-96 mph and a pair of splitters. His 22/2 K/BB ratio in 12 1/3 IP at Single-A West Michigan indicates effectively nasty stuff. He'll need far more innings, but the potential is definitely there.

Detroit selected Whelan, a catcher turned closer at Texas A&M, in the fourth round of the 2005 amateur draft. He has a four-seam fastball that peaks at 95-96 mph and a pair of splitters.