Regardless of a reasonably disappointing and inconsistent first half of the season, the Detroit Tigers are nonetheless within the playoff image.
A.J. Hinch’s staff can nonetheless end the season sturdy and sneak into the postseason, particularly in one of many weakest divisions in baseball. The Tigers are simply 5 video games out of the AL Central lead and three.5 video games out of a wild-card spot.
That is why some argue that they could not need to commerce Tarik Skubal, because the two-time Cy Younger winner provides them a respectable probability to make the playoffs.
Nevertheless, based on MLB insider Bob Nightengale, a number of groups across the league imagine the Tigers will nonetheless haven’t any selection however to half methods with their ace.
Tigers may nonetheless commerce Tarik Skubal
“Some rival GMs imagine that despite the fact that the Detroit Tigers have climbed into the wild-card race, they are going to nonetheless commerce two-time Cy Younger winner Tarik Skubal, whereas attempting to persuade their gamers and fan base that they aren’t surrendering. ‘I actually imagine they need to transfer him,” one rival GM stated. “In the event that they didn’t, then why haven’t they shut down the rumors?’” Nightengale wrote.
Skubal is essentially the most priceless commerce chip within the league proper now, even on an expiring deal.
The Tigers are already aware of this strategy, and it would not be the primary time they’ve turned veteran hurlers into gold for the long run whereas staying aggressive.
“The Tigers may attempt to thread the needle transferring Skubal, however get younger beginning pitching in return. The Tigers made the playoffs two years in the past by doing the identical, buying and selling starter Jack Flaherty to the Dodgers for prospects Trey Sweeney and Thayron Liranzo, and nonetheless made the playoffs,” he added.
No matter what occurs, Skubal would be the largest fish in free company, so the Tigers may remorse not pulling the set off after they may nonetheless get one thing in return.
