The MLB trade deadline is a time for the Detroit Tigers to make major additions to the roster. With needs in the bullpen, starting rotation, and at third base, there are plenty of options to choose from.
However, Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic predicts that the Tigers, despite leading the AL, are not expected to make any big moves at the deadline. “There will be moves,” Stavenhagen writes, “But not big ones.”
“It would be very Tigers-like to add a couple of under-the-radar reliever pitchers and maybe a platoon bat.” Stavenhagen writes, “They’ll improve the team, but maybe not boost the star power.”
With a need in the bullpen, landing a star closer would be ideal. But this prediction says otherwise, as the Tigers might not land one of the top names, instead going after less of a high-profile trade target.
“We know the Tigers need relief help.” Stavenhagen writes, “But do they actually want Aroldis Chapman?”
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The same can be said for the rotation and third base. Despite needs at both spots, the Tigers are predicted to go after lesser-known players to fill those roles, if they address those spots at all.
“There’s a case for adding a starter. But would they pay up for Sandy Alcantara?” Stavenhagen writes, “A big right-handed bat has its merits, but other teams like Eugenio Suarez, too.”
Missing out on the top options at all of their positions of need, despite sitting atop the AL and in great shape to contend this season, would make for a lackluster trade deadline.
Adding star power to the lineup, rotation, or bullpen would help the team immensely. While the Tigers could still land decent players who aren’t considered stars, the chance to land an Eugenio Suarez, or a Sandy Alcantara, or one of the many star relievers doesn’t happen often.
After years of toiling at the bottom of the division and the league, the Tigers are atop the baseball world after the All-Star break. Not making a move for any of the top trade candidates would be a letdown and an overall lackluster trade deadline for Detroit.
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