The Detroit Tigers currently hold a 34-37 record, trailing the Cleveland Guardians by 11.5 games in the AL Central and sitting 4.5 games behind a wildcard spot as of June 16th. While their position isn’t ideal, it marks an improvement over previous seasons at this point. With over a month until the MLB Trade Deadline, speculation is mounting about how the Tigers will navigate this pivotal period.
In recent years, Tigers fans have approached the trade deadline with apprehension. This season, much will depend on the team’s performance over the next six weeks. Here’s an early analysis of what the Tigers might consider as they approach the deadline, starting with potential acquisitions, such as outfielder Miguel Andujar.
MIGUEL ANDÚJAR IS ON FIRE! 🔥
A THREE-RUN SHOT AGAINST CHRIS SALE BUSTS IT OPEN FOR THE OAKLAND A’S! #Athletics pic.twitter.com/qjwekAp6NK
— Uprooted (@uprootedoakland) June 1, 2024
For the Detroit Tigers to entertain the idea of becoming buyers at the trade deadline, they would need a significant turnaround with a string of victories leading up to the deadline. If they manage to climb into wildcard contention or close the gap in their division, acquiring offensive firepower could become a realistic consideration.
Miguel Andujar, currently with the Oakland Athletics, has showcased impressive hitting prowess despite appearing in only 17 games this season. He boasts a .309/.324/.456 slash line with six extra-base hits, including two home runs, and 12 RBIs. If Andujar can sustain this level of performance until the deadline, he could be a viable target for Detroit if they reposition themselves as playoff contenders.
Another potential acquisition could be designated hitter/outfielder J.D. Martinez.
J.D. MARTINEZ HITS A TWO-RUN WALK-OFF HOMER!
METS WIN! pic.twitter.com/uq2EN7dkm1
— SNY (@SNYtv) June 14, 2024
I’ve discussed the possibility of a J.D. Martinez reunion before, but if it doesn’t materialize at the deadline, this will likely be the last time I mention it as a potential scenario. The primary obstacle is obviously the Tigers’ resurgence into playoff contention. Should they achieve that, why not consider adding a veteran like Martinez, who has been performing well for the Mets? The critical factor here is Kerry Carpenter’s recovery progress leading up to the deadline; his return timeline could sway Scott Harris’s decision-making. Additionally, with Mark Canha already on the roster, the front office might not view Martinez as a necessary addition. However, Martinez’s impressive stats this season and the team’s evident need for offensive firepower make a compelling case.
Now, having discussed potential additions, let’s turn to a player who is unlikely to remain with the Tigers beyond July 31st.
Expected to be Traded: RHP – Jack Flaherty
Jack Flaherty, Dirty 77mph Curveball. 😨 pic.twitter.com/Gz0FFTDHOk
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) June 5, 2024
I would be surprised if Flaherty is still pitching for the Tigers after the trade deadline. When they traded Michael Lorenzen, a veteran rental, to the Phillies, the Tigers acquired one of the Phillies’ top five prospects. Flaherty has been nearly elite this season and has delivered several standout performances since joining the Tigers. With a weak market for starting pitching leading up to the trade deadline, and assuming Max Scherzer or Justin Verlander aren’t available for trade, Flaherty could be one of the most sought-after options.
Despite his deceiving 4-4 record, Flaherty has been impressive. He started the season 0-4 due to minimal run support from the offense but hasn’t lost a game since May 23rd against the Blue Jays.
This season, Flaherty boasts a 3.01 ERA, 0.953 WHIP, 2.62 FIP, and 136 ERA+ across 77.2 innings pitched. He has recorded exactly 100 strikeouts while issuing just 11 walks.
Potential Destinations for Flaherty and What the Tigers Could Get
Jack Flaherty, Filthy 87mph Slider. 😷 pic.twitter.com/9SG68MLmh5
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) May 19, 2024
Let’s explore potential trade partners for Jack Flaherty and their top prospects:
Milwaukee Brewers:
Under new manager Pat Murphy, the Brewers are excelling, leading their division by 12 games above .500. They’re expected to focus on bolstering their pitching staff and Flaherty could fit well. The Brewers’ top five prospects include:
– RHP Jacob Misiorowski
– C Jeferson Quero
– 1B Tyler Black
– LHP Robert Gasser
– 3B Brock Wilken
Houston Astros:
The Astros have faced challenges in their starting rotation this season and recently dealt with underperformance from veteran Jose Abreu. They might look to add starting pitching, making Flaherty a logical target. The Astros’ top five prospects are:
– OF Jacob Melton
– OF Luis Baez
– SS Brice Matthews
– 3B/2B Zach Dezenzo
– OF/INF Joey Loperfido
San Diego Padres:
Although the Padres are reportedly interested in Garrett Crochet from the White Sox, Flaherty could become a fallback option if they fail to acquire Crochet. The Padres’ top five prospects include:
– C Ethan Salas
– LHP Robby Snelling
– RHP Dylan Lesko
– SS Leodalis De Vries
– RHP Adam Mazur
Cleveland Guardians:
Trading within the division might not be popular, but the Guardians are contenders and could pursue Flaherty to strengthen their starting rotation. They are also looking for a power-hitting corner outfielder. The Guardians’ top five prospects are:
– OF Chase DeLauter
– 1B Kyle Manzardo
– OF Jaison Chourio
– 1B Ralphy Velazquez
– RHP Daniel Espino
These teams represent potential trade partners for Flaherty, with each having promising prospects that could interest the Tigers in a trade scenario.
