Detroit Tigers general manager Jeff Greenberg will work harder to give Tarik Skubal & Co. some edge beyond the MLB trade deadline.
The Tigers hold the best record in the MLB, but they need to tie up loose ends to set them up for a deep postseason run come October. It starts with acquiring pieces for the bullpen and the starting rotation, which has been shaky of late, especially in that series against the Washington Nationals.
Bullpen Reinforcements
The Tigers are looking to address their bullpen by targeting high-leverage relievers, such as Pittsburgh’s David Bednar, Tampa’s Pete Fairbanks, and even Washington’s Kyle Finnegan. If they are able to get even one of them, they'll surely be better when it comes to holding teams off bay down the stretch.
SI’s Nick Ziegler suggested a trade: Kyle Finnegan for Tigers’ prospect Joseph Montalvo.
Rotation Upgrade
While Tarik Skubal and the rest of the rotation have fared relatively well but they can be better, especially with Jack Flaherty having his ups and downs on the mound. Amid injury concerns and inconsistent performers, Detroit must trade for a frontline starter.
MLB analyst Brad Wakai suggests trading for Luis Severino of the Mets. While Severino himself is not having a good season - a 5.30 ERA in 108.2 innings - a change in scenery and backed by strong offense could change things up for good.
With Detroit fans yearning for a World Series run, the Tigers' front office needs to work extra time to address all weaknesses before the trade deadline.