DETROIT (AP) — The most promising moment for the Detroit Tigers this year may have occurred far away from Comerica Park — or any other major league field.

On April 29, Casey Mize threw a no-hitter in his debut for Double-A Erie.

After narrowly avoiding triple-digit losses the previous two seasons, the big league Tigers sank all the way to a 47-114 record in 2019. They were particularly awful at home, going 22-59. If there was going to be any cause for optimism, it was going to be because of young prospects who might be able to help this team in the future.

“I think our fans down at spring training are going to see some of these guys,” manager Ron Gardenhire said. “They’re going to get their chances out on the mound during games and hopefully our fans will get to see those guys firsthand produce and throw the ball like we know they can throw the ball. Some of the infielders and outfielders that we’ve got, you’ll see them in spring training I’m hoping. I’m asking for some of those guys (from the) Double-A team.”

PORTLAND, Maine — Even with nearly two decades in professional baseball, Mike Rabelo still couldn’t hide his giddy enthusiasm for his current team’s stacked pitching rotation.

The manager at Double-A Erie and former big league catcher gushed over the talents of Casey Mize, Matt Manning, Alex Faedo, Tarik Skubal and Joey Wentz, who, along with Triple-A Toledo starter Beau Burrows, are at the forefront of the Detroit Tigers’ rebuild.

“I’m not moving the chess pieces, but if I had to say, this is the group. And rightfully so,” Rabelo told Yahoo Sports. “They’re right around the corner from pitching in Comerica [Park].”

The Erie pitchers themselves know it’s a long process and are focused on the here and now. But Rabelo said they know that all eyes are on them, and they’re thrilled about it.