The Detroit Tigers, once hopeful contenders after a promising start this season, now find themselves grappling with familiar setbacks as the MLB trade deadline approaches. With a record that plummeted from 18-13 on May 1 to winning just five of their subsequent 19 games, the Tigers are now 11.5 games behind in the competitive AL Central, marking what could be their eighth consecutive losing season. As the trade deadline looms, the Tigers are poised to adopt a seller strategy, aiming to rejuvenate their roster with fresh talent and potential. Among the possible trades, Liam Hanley to Clutch Points has suggested two that stand out as particularly strategic.
First, the Tigers may think about sending Baltimore Orioles right-hander Jack Flaherty in exchange. After agreeing to a one-year contract worth $14 million with the Tigers, Flaherty has shown to be a valued asset with a 3.01 ERA and strong strikeout rates. With Flaherty on the team, the Orioles, who are dealing with injuries in their rotation, could greatly improve their pitching strength, especially as they compete with the New York Yankees for supremacy. Promising prospects like pitcher Seth Johnson and shortstop Frederick Bencosme from the Orioles could be acquired by the Tigers in exchange.
Another potential move involves outfielder Mark Canha, who could be traded to the San Francisco Giants. Canha has been a reliable player for the Tigers, leading the team with a .346 on-base percentage and ranking second in RBIs. The Giants, facing injuries among their outfielders, could benefit from Canha’s consistency to bolster their lineup as they compete in the NL Wild Card race and challenge the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Tigers, in exchange, might acquire outfielder Jonah Cox, enhancing their prospect pool.
