Despite inconsistent performances from Rick Porcello (5.21 ERA) and Max Scherzer (5.67), the Tigers do not expect to pursue a starting pitcher via trade this season according to Danny Knobler of CBSSports.com (on Twitter). Detroit likes its current rotation and has prospects Jacob Turner and Casey Crosby in the minors.
The Tigers' rotation currently owns a 3.98 ERA, which ranks as the fifth best in the American League. Rookie left-hander Drew Smyly (3.14 ERA) has settled in nicely in nine starts, and Doug Fister (3.15 ERA) recently returned from a stint on the disabled list. It's worth noting that only two other AL teams have gotten fewer innings out of their starters than Detroit (275 1/3 innings) despite Justin Verlander's streak of 53 consecutive starts of at least six innings.
Well what do they expect to pursue then? A’s have plenty of guys they’d like to trade I’m sure…
Bartolo Colon would be a nice addition for the Tigers…could they try for McCarthy?
McCarthy might be a little too expensive (even for a rental). Might take Crosby and another prospect, maybe even Brantly…
Bartolo would come pretty cheap, especially since he’s been faltering some lately. Wouldn’t take more than a low tier prospect if the Tigers pick up the bill, or a mid-tier prospect if the A’s pick up the bill.
A second baseman.
Bingo. Second baseman, corner outfielder that isn’t a free swinging big lug….
Hopefully a 2B who can give them some athleticism and obp skills. Not many exist, but that’s a primary need of the team right now.
Rickie Weeks can be had. He’s athletic, has power, can take a walk, and he’s a buddy of Fielder. If you can ignore his .153 BA, tons of strikeouts and you don’t mind taking on the $40 million or so remaining on his contract, you can have him. Better yet, maybe we’ll throw in Greinke (I don’t believe Detroit won’t seek pitching either), but the Tigers might have to send something of value back for the package.
I’d take Weeks and Greinke for Jacob Turner, Casey Crosby, and a midlevel guy if that’s all it took. Assuming Greinke’s willing to sign an extension that is. Weeks might like being reunited with Prince. The Tigers can afford the Weeks contract even if he doesn’t ever find his form. We have Delmon Young making 7MM this season and Jose Valverde making 9M. We are also paying Brandon Inge 5.5MM to play for another team. None of those guys will be back at that price next year. Weeks could really settle into that 2-hole nicely in front of MCab and Prince.
Substitute Nick Castellanos for one of the two pitchers and I’d make that deal. Brewers are really thin in position player prospects. If the Brewers unloaded Weeks salary, they’d have plenty to spend.
Tigers have been a disappointment this year. Their infield defense is shabby and they leave too many runners in scoring position.
Why would they be looking for a pitcher? The pitching has been the only bright spot for the Tigers this season. Scherzer has been more unlucky than bad this season. I’d say the only Porcello is the only one that really needs to much improvement. Both carry FIPs well below their respective ERAs. The bullpen has been solid too.
More than anything, the Tigers need a 2b and the bats to come alive.
Chone Figgins would make a lot of sense.