5 rookies who could impact the MLB playoff race

Jun 24, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Corey Seager (5) looses his helmet on the way to score a run against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the fifth inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 24, 2016; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Corey Seager (5) looses his helmet on the way to score a run against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the fifth inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /
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Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Michael Fulmer (32) pitches the first inning of a baseball game against the Boston Red sox in Detroit, Michigan USA, on Friday, August 19, 2016. (Photo by Jorge Lemus/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Michael Fulmer (32) pitches the first inning of a baseball game against the Boston Red sox in Detroit, Michigan USA, on Friday, August 19, 2016. (Photo by Jorge Lemus/NurPhoto via Getty Images) /

Michael Fulmer, RHP
Detroit Tigers

Unlike the first three players mentioned, Fulmer’s Tigers are not currently in a playoff spot, but they are only 2.5 games out of the second Wild Card. With a potent offense, the only thing holding the Tigers back is their shaky rotation. The centerpiece of last year’s Yoenis Cespedes trade, Fulmer has stabilized a group of starters that has not gotten much from big free-agent acquisition Jordan Zimmermann.

Fulmer has emerged as a legitimate Cy Young contender in the AL, as his 2.58 ERA currently leads the league. His candidacy will likely come up short, as his innings will not match those of J.A. Happ, Danny Duffy or Cole Hamels. Rookie of the Year could make a nice consolation prize.

As is the case with Bundy, the Tigers are going to have to carefully monitor Fulmer’s innings. After finishing the first half with a 2.11 ERA, the 23-year-old has gone slightly backwards in the second half. The Tigers will likely allow Fulmer to skip a start or two in order to keep him fresh.