As Parker Meadows took his game-winning single the opposite way to help Detroit pull within three games of .500, it was another one of the those “holy s%$!” moments this season in which the Tigers came back from a situation where the offense struggled all game, and they pulled off the comeback.
Parker Meadows is the #walkoff hero for the @Tigers at the #LittleLeagueClassic! pic.twitter.com/bh0WOCZB4i
— MLB (@MLB) August 19, 2024
He, along with Colt Keith, served as the catalysts of the Tigers’ offense during Detroit’s first participation in the Little League classic, with three hits apiece. But since his return off the IL, Meadows’s role as the catalyst has continued to grow within the lineup.
Data diving
There are two ways to look at Parker Meadows’s season in 2024 as far as stats go at both Toledo and Detroit. The first way is how are his overall numbers translate to progress from last season. So thank you to Jerry, our data wizard here at Tigers Minor League Report, we pulled his numbers based on the small sample size since his return on July 4. This does not include the numbers from this week, but this allows us to show the difference from his time last year in Toledo and Detroit.
Since rejoining the Tigers on July 4, Parker Meadows has been solid at the plate and sharp in the field. His expected weighted on-base average (xwOBA) indicates he’s making quality contact, with more frequent barreled balls showing his power potential.
The improvements are small, but since August 3rd, he is hitting .348/.362/.565 with a wRC+ of 158 in 47 plate appearances. (16-for-47). Parker continues his reputation as a solid defender with his ability to track down anything, whether it’s at Comerica or not. The catch in Seattle is just a small, yet huge impression on the Tigers’ outfield defense as a whole. He is third in Outs Above Average for the Tigers, just behind Andy Ibáñez and Zach McKinstry.
In conclusion, Parker Meadows has made a significant impact since rejoining the Tigers on July 4. His ability to make quality contact, backed by a solid xwOBA, and his increasing frequency of barreled balls showcase his offensive potential. Coupled with his strong defensive metrics, including impressive Outs Above Average, Meadows is proving to be a key player for Detroit. His growth from last season, with this sample size, has been crucial, especially as Detroit begins a stretch against both Chicago teams that could allow them to get over .500.
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Emily Waldon