Detroit Tigers players who could be on the move
By Tony Fischer
Ian Kinsler
The former Texas Ranger has played at an All-Star level since being traded to the Detroit Tigers just prior to the 2014 season. Ian Kinsler was part of a deal that sent Prince Fielder (and a boat load of cash) to the Texas Rangers. It was a deal that took the baseball world by surprise and the first move in then General Manager Dave Dombrowski’s attempt to re-tool on the fly. The acquisition of Kinsler provided the answer the Tigers were looking for at both the top of the batting order and at second base.
Kinsler is coming off an All-Star caliber 2016 season where he saw a resurgence in power (28 HR) while winning a Gold Glove. Offensively he is off to a slow start but has still been flashing leather. The slumping bat can be explained in part by a hamstring injury Kinsler has been nursing all season. The Tigers recently sent their second baseman to the DL in attempt to rid him of the lingering issue.
Despite the slow start and recent trip to the disabled list, Kinsler is a very attractive trade piece for the Tigers. Kinsler is being paid just $11 million this season and is under club control through 2018 thanks to a team option. With his ability to perform consistently well at the top of the order, the Detroit Tigers could get a solid return for the All-Star second baseman.