By: Trevor Hooth
In what could very well have been his last game in a Detroit Tigers uniform, Justin Verlander finally looked like more than just a ghost of himself. It is that time of year where rumors swirl about at a rapid pace. The trade deadline brings with it many whispers of players on the move, and Verlander is an increasingly popular subject.
In seven innings of work, Verlander struck out nine batters while only allowing three runs on 116 pitches. This makes three solid outings in a row (2.37 ERA) for the 2016 AL Cy Young runner-up. Recent success helped drop his ERA from the stratosphere to 4.50.
This only increases his trade value to other teams. At any point in time, the Chicago Cubs, Houston Astros, and Milwaukee Brewers have inquired about Verlander. So far, all have been to no avail. However, recent events could indicate a new suitor.
The ace for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Clayton Kershaw, will miss four to six weeks due to a strain in his back. That news opens up doors for the Dodgers to try and acquire a pitcher. There are already rumors saying that they are willing to part with their power-hitting second base prospect Willie Calhoun.
Considering other talks have Ian Kinsler possibly departing from the Tigers, Calhoun and his 22 home runs in Triple-A could be of great help for the future. While there is nothing concrete yet, the stage is set for the Dodgers to at least call Al Avila.
All this will not matter, though, if Verlander’s massive contract scares teams away. He is owed $28 million in 2018 and 2019. That has been the biggest issue in moving him. The Tigers have played jump rope with the idea of taking on part of the contract.
As the July 31st trade deadline approaches, the likelihood of a contender deciding to pay the whole contract for the talents of Verlander will likely increase. The Tigers have committed to selling some of the big contracts, so a move is expected to be made.
The Tigers have emerged in only rumors since dealing J.D. Martinez to the Arizona Diamiondbacks for a triad of prospects. Martinez may have been the first Tiger on the move, but he will not be the last. It is time to plan for future success in the AL Central.
Trevor Hooth is from Farmington, Connecticut. He is a senior Communication major at Millikin University where also plays baseball.