With the MLB trade deadline less than two weeks out, the Detroit Tigers sit in third place of the AL Central with a better-than-expected 44-51 record.
Though they’re 13.5 games out of the division lead and 9.5 behind the second wild card-holding Oakland A’s, the Detroit News’ Chris McCosky reported that GM Al Avila will not be looking to sell assets before the deadline.
The news is likely welcome to most Tiger fans, as the club has been firmly among the “seller” group for the past half-decade. Of course, they’ve rarely had much to sell. That isn’t necessarily the case this season, as several players could be sought after at the deadline. Of course, this may also just be wiser posturing from a front office who has all too often made their intentions plain.
Tigers GM Al Avila staying true to his earlier message. There is no urgency to trade anybody. Will make a deal only if it benefits the club going forward. No giveaways. No salary dumps.
— Chris McCosky (@cmccosky) July 20, 2021
Trade candidates in Detroit include impending free agents 1B/2B Jonathan Schoop (122 OPS+, 17 HR, 58 RBIs) and SP Wily Peralta (1.64 ERA in six starts, 0.94 WHIP) along with OF Robbie Grossman (.354 OBP, 13 HR, 11 SB), who is signed through 2022 for a reasonable $5 million. The Tigers could also see teams pursue good relievers like Gregory Soto and Jose Cisnero, though based on Avila’s comments, they’re in no rush to deal either unless the offer is quite compelling.
It’s also unlikely the team will sell prospects to acquire win-now assets considering they’re not within immediate striking distance of a playoff spot. As of now, expect Detroit to be relatively quiet on the trade front as deadline day draws near.