The Detroit Tigers have a decision to make on one of their top prospects, and it could come sooner than expected.

With the MLB trade deadline approaching, the Tigers are facing a tough call on infielder Hao-Yu Lee. The 23-year-old prospect was called up from Triple-A to help a depleted infield, but his bat hasn't caught up to the big leagues yet.

Lee, who was born in Taiwan, has posted a .159 batting average with a .551 OPS in under 50 at-bats. While he brings versatility—capable of playing second base, third base, and shortstop—his production at the plate has been a concern for a team that's already struggling offensively outside of Riley Greene and Kevin McGonigle.

FanSided's Mark Powell recently highlighted the situation: "He's a feel-good story in a season that thus far has very few of those for the Tigers. As much as I wish he were playing better, he simply isn't, which could lead to another minor-league stint in the not-so-distant future."

The Tigers' infield has been hit hard by injuries to Javier Baez, Trey Sweeney, and Gleyber Torres, which opened the door for Lee. But with Sweeney or Torres potentially returning from the injured list soon, Lee's time in the majors might be running out.

For a young player still developing, more reps at Triple-A could be exactly what he needs to refine his swing and build confidence. It's a tough pill to swallow for a prospect who showed so much promise, but sometimes the best move for a player's long-term career is a step back.

As the trade deadline looms, the Tigers will have to weigh their options—and Lee's future in Detroit may hang in the balance.