The Detroit Tigers realistically have a sound enough farm system to make any trade around the deadline.
Heading into the July 31 trade deadline, the Tigers should feel confident in improving their roster if the ownership and front office are willing to take on bigger contracts.
Ultimately, the Tigers could find a way to be creative and land cheaper talent, but if they have the chance to add a star who is on a big deal, they should consider it.
When proposing ideas for the top trade candidates on the market, Sportsnaut proposed one to land Mitch Keller, who is on a five-year, $77 million deal.
“Starting pitching hasn’t always been an area of need for the Detroit Tigers. Unfortunately, Jackson Jobe underwent Tommy John surgery in June, and Jack Flaherty’s ERA sits at 5.40 over his last 14 starts. Given this club’s aspirations and the fact that Jobe will miss most of next season, it might be wise to acquire another long-term starter. The Tigers absolutely have the depth and talent in their farm system to pull off a trade for Keller. If they are willing, Detroit could even expand the deal to include Pittsburgh’s All-Star closer, David Bednar,” they wrote.
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Keller was an All-Star during the 2023 campaign, a year in which he posted a 4.21 ERA. During this season, he's arguably been better than ever with his 3.58 ERA and 92 strikeouts in 119.0 innings.
His strikeout numbers aren't ideal, which is worrisome, but if he could be used as a third or fourth arm in the Tigers' rotation, they'd be in a good spot come October.