The Player:
Andre Lipcius, a third-round pick in the 2019 MLB Draft, has been a consistent offensive force in the minor leagues. His slash line of .266/.358/.409 showcases his ability to get on base and contribute with the bat. Notably, Lipcius maintains an impressive 14% walk rate across more than 1500 career MiLB at-bats, aligning well with the Detroit Tigers’ offensive philosophy of owning the strike zone. His potential has not gone unnoticed, as he climbed as high as No. 24 on the Tigers’ Top-30 Prospects list in 2020.
His First Real Shot:
In Spring Training 2023, Lipcius finally earned a legitimate opportunity. Over 41 at-bats, he hit an impressive .293, showcasing his offensive prowess. However, the absence of walks during spring camp raised some concerns. His SLG% of .585 and OPS of .879 were promising, driving in 11 runs. Lipcius was later called up in September 2023, following a scorching August performance in Triple-A Toledo: .343/.438/.612 with 23 hits, 5 home runs, 21 RBIs, and 12 walks. In his 13 games with the Tigers, he slashed .286/.342/.742, hitting 1 home run and driving in 4 RBIs while proudly wearing the Old English D. His Major League stats translated to an OPS+ of 103 and a wRC+ of 107.
Defense is the Problem:
Unfortunately, Lipcius has never been a standout defensively. His career fielding percentages at third base (.937) and second base (.974) in the minor leagues reflect this struggle. During his time in Detroit, he posted below-average defensive metrics, a common theme among many prospects within the Tigers’ farm system. His -0.2 fWAR, -3.8 Fielding Value, and -4 DRS culminate in a -5 Outs Above Average (OAA). Clearly, defense remains a significant challenge for Lipcius.
Days Dwindling:
The extension of Colt Keith and the emergence of Jace Jung have cast a shadow over Lipcius’s future. Other infield prospects like Eddys Leonard, Justyn-Henry Malloy (moving to the outfield), and Wenceel Perez also loom ahead. Lipcius faces an uphill battle to surpass these talented players. To secure a lasting spot in Detroit, he needs a massive spring performance—both offensively and defensively—to leapfrog his competition. The clock is ticking, and Lipcius’s days with the Tigers may be dwindling.
What Would You Do?
As the Tigers’ front office, the decision regarding Lipcius’s fate is crucial. Here are some options:
1. Stash Him in Toledo: Use Lipcius as depth in case of injuries, allowing him to continue developing in Triple-A.
2. Package Him in a Trade: Explore trade opportunities where Lipcius could be part of a larger deal.
3. Find a 1-for-1 Trade Partner: Seek a direct trade for another prospect or player.
4. Deal Him for Cash: Consider cashing in on his potential value.
The Tigers must weigh these choices carefully, balancing short-term needs with long-term prospects. Lipcius’s destiny hangs in the balance, and the clock is ticking.