Trade Deadline Preview: Detroit Tigers
By Aaron Somers
Jun 24, 2014; Arlington, TX, USA; Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Drew Smyly (33) pitches in the first inning against the Texas Rangers at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Who could be moved:
1. Phil Coke
Coke has hardly had a dominant season. His struggles have made him expendable, particularly when the team could shift Drew Smyly into the bullpen and replace him with Robbie Ray in the rotation. It would arguably be an upgrade across the board. There are no guarantees how much interest Coke may draw on the trade market. He’s 31, cheap, and will be a free agent at season’s end. Any return he’d bring back would be marginal.
Could/should the Tigers sell high on Martinez given the surprising production they’ve seen from him? Or do they hold onto him with the thinking that he could step into right field next season when Torii Hunter walks as a free agent. The latter seems more likely, but with how hot Martinez’ bat has been there could be a club out there who will overpay to acquire him.
3. Drew Smyly
There are questions about the team’s rotation beyond this season, with Scherzer facing free agency and it remaining unclear if he’ll re-sign with Detroit. The Tigers could benefit from keeping Smyly around as depth and insurance. However, this team wants to win now and replacing Smyly in the rotation with Ray could help them do so.