As the July 31 MLB Trade Deadline nears, the Detroit Tigers are emerging as clear buyers, looking to reinforce their push as legitimate contenders in the American League.
This represents a major turnaround from recent years, when the team was largely focused on rebuilding.
“I have to admit, I misjudged the Tigers,” said R.J. Anderson of CBS Sports. “After their strong finish last year, their quiet offseason had me thinking they might fall short of the playoffs.
“Instead, Detroit is heading into trade season from a position of strength.”
Strategic Acquisitions and Development
Under the guidance of manager A.J. Hinch and President of Baseball Operations Scott Harris, the Detroit Tigers have evolved into a legitimate contender.
What was once a struggling offense now ranks fourth in the majors, averaging 5.38 runs per game. Spencer Torkelson has emerged as a key power bat, while Javier Báez has thrived since moving to center field, contributing both at the plate and with his glove.
The Tigers’ front office has remained aggressive in improving the roster, making several strategic moves in 2025:
- February 12: Traded pitcher Mason Englert to the Tampa Bay Rays for minor league arm Drew Sommers.
- March 13: Acquired pitcher Bailey Horn from the Cardinals for cash considerations.
- March 28: Acquired outfielder Brewer Hicklen from the Brewers, who was promoted to the big-league club on April 8.
These acquisitions reflect a dual focus: bolstering the current roster while keeping an eye on future development.
The pitching staff has been a defining strength. Since the start of the 2024 season, Detroit’s rotation has posted the best ERA in baseball. Tarik Skubal anchors the group and has positioned himself as a leading Cy Young Award candidate.
Meanwhile, the bullpen has thrived under Hinch’s creative management, playing a vital role in the Tigers’ early-season success.
Trade Deadline Outlook
Given their current momentum, the Detroit Tigers appear poised to be aggressive buyers as the July 31 Trade Deadline approaches—especially with third base emerging as their most pressing need.
The Tigers have used a stopgap solution at the hot corner, rotating Matt Vierling and Jace Jung, but injuries and growing pains have made the position a clear vulnerability on an otherwise well-rounded roster. Vierling, a natural outfielder, is currently out with shoulder inflammation, and while Jung shows promise, he’s still adjusting to major league pitching.
As a result, Detroit has been linked to several high-profile trade candidates. One prominent name is Nolan Arenado of the St. Louis Cardinals, a perennial All-Star known for his Gold Glove-caliber defense and steady veteran bat. Former MLB GM Jim Bowden recently suggested a potential package that could include top prospects Josh Randall and Carson Rucker to land Arenado.
Another intriguing possibility is Bo Bichette of the Toronto Blue Jays. Although he’s primarily a shortstop, Bichette could make the move to third base and inject significant offensive firepower into the Tigers’ lineup.
Beyond third base, the front office is also targeting bullpen upgrades. While relievers like Tommy Kahnle and Will Vest have delivered strong performances, inconsistency from arms like Tyler Holton and Beau Brieske has exposed the need for a more reliable late-inning option. Acquiring a high-leverage reliever could prove essential in tight, high-stakes games.
The team is also evaluating the catcher position, hoping to find more consistent offensive output behind the plate to support their playoff push.
As CBS Sports’ R.J. Anderson put it:
“The Tigers look like the most interesting buyer in the land.”
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