Detroit, the once-proud Motor City, is home to one of baseball’s most storied franchises, the Detroit Tigers. But in recent years, the Tigers have languished in the shadows of their past success, mired in a cycle of rebuilding and frustration. Now, as the 2023 MLB season approaches, the Tigers face a pivotal decision that could shape their future: explore trading options.
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The Tigers possess several pieces that could attract interest from other clubs. From All-Star outfielder Riley Greene to veteran left-hander Eduardo Rodriguez, there’s no shortage of talent in Detroit. The question is, are they willing to part ways with these valuable assets to accelerate their rebuild?
Weighing the Pros and Cons
There are several arguments in favor of exploring trades. Firstly, the Tigers could acquire promising young players or much-needed prospects to replenish their depleted farm system. A fresh infusion of talent could jumpstart their rebuilding process and lay the foundation for a brighter future.
Secondly, clearing out some veterans could free up salary space to sign free agents or extend the contracts of key players such as Spencer Torkelson and Matt Manning. This would demonstrate a commitment to building a competitive team around its young core.
On the flip side, there are also risks associated with trading away key players. Greene, for example, has the potential to become a cornerstone of the Tigers’ offense for years to come. Rodriguez, too, has proven his worth as a reliable starter. Parting with either of them could send the wrong message to the team and the fanbase.
Potential Trade Targets
If the Tigers choose to explore trades, there are a few players who could be on the move. One potential trade candidate is right-hander Michael Pineda. While he’s a solid pitcher, the Tigers have a surplus of starters and could opt to trade Pineda to a team in need of pitching depth.
Another player who could be traded is outfielder Robbie Grossman. A veteran presence with speed and a good eye at the plate, Grossman could fetch a decent return in a trade.
The Tigers could also consider trading third baseman Jeimer Candelario. While he’s been a solid contributor, the Tigers could look to move him to make way for rising prospect Isaac Paredes.
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Detroit Tigers Trading Options
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The Final Decision
Ultimately, whether or not to trade players is a difficult decision that the Tigers’ front office must make. They must weigh the pros and cons carefully, considering both the short-term and long-term impact of their choices.
One thing is clear: the Tigers are at a crossroads. They can either continue to tinker around the edges and hope for a miraculous turnaround, or they can make bold moves to accelerate their rebuild and return to contention sooner rather than later.
The fate of the Detroit Tigers hangs in the balance. Only time will tell which path they choose.
