The Detroit Tigers made a move to strengthen their bullpen at the trade deadline, acquiring right-handed reliever Kyle Finnegan from the Washington Nationals. This acquisition has sparked speculation about whether the Tigers are positioning themselves for further moves, potentially targeting New York Yankees’ second baseman, Gleyber Torres. With the Tigers looking to improve their roster and compete in a tough AL Central division, could Torres be the next player to join the Motor City?
This article will analyze the Finnegan trade, its implications for the Tigers’ bullpen, and examine the likelihood of a potential trade for Gleyber Torres. We’ll delve into the Tigers’ current needs, Torres’s performance and contract situation, and potential trade scenarios that could make this move a reality. We’ll also evaluate the potential impact of Torres on the Tigers’ lineup and their chances of contending for a playoff spot.
Tigers Acquire Kyle Finnegan: Bullpen Boost
The Detroit Tigers acquired Kyle Finnegan from the Washington Nationals in exchange for pitching prospects Josh Randall and R.J. Sales. Finnegan, a right-handed reliever with closing experience, is expected to provide a boost to the Tigers’ bullpen, which has struggled with consistency this season.
Finnegan has saved 38 games for the Nationals last season, with a 4.38 ERA. General Manager, Scott Harris is hoping his 3.51 xERA suggests will make him a buy-low option for the Tigers. In an article by Brittany Ghiroli of The Athletic, she notes that Finnegan ‘has converted 20 saves this season, though he’s had a bit of an up-and-down year. He had a 2.36 ERA as recently as mid-July, then gave up runs in three of five appearances and saw that number balloon over 4.’
Addressing the Tigers’ Bullpen Woes
The Tigers’ bullpen has been a weak spot this season, with an ERA above 5.00 since June 1st. The additions of Finnegan and Rafael Montero, along with the injured Paul Sewald, are aimed at improving the overall quality and depth of the bullpen. However, the Tigers have been hesitant to part with top prospects for a bigger splash, leading to criticism from some fans and analysts.
As Ghiroli notes, ‘Although they have seemingly been unwilling to part with the prospects necessary for a bigger splash, Detroit has both added depth and perhaps improved the overall quality of a bullpen that has had an ERA above 5.00 since June 1.’ This approach suggests the Tigers are looking for incremental improvements rather than a complete overhaul of their bullpen.
Gleyber Torres: A Potential Target?
With the addition of Finnegan, speculation has arisen about whether the Tigers could make another move to acquire Gleyber Torres from the New York Yankees. Torres, a versatile infielder with offensive upside, could fill a need for the Tigers at second base and provide a boost to their lineup.
Torres is currently under contract with the Yankees, but his name has been mentioned in trade rumors in the past. His contract situation and performance this season could make him an attractive trade target for teams looking to add offensive firepower. The Tigers, with their need for a consistent hitter at second base, could be a potential suitor.
Analyzing Gleyber Torres’s Performance
Gleyber Torres has had a solid season with the Yankees, batting .260 with 15 home runs and 50 RBIs. While he hasn’t reached the heights of his early career, he remains a valuable offensive contributor with the ability to play multiple positions. His switch-hitting ability and power potential make him an attractive option for teams looking to add versatility and offensive punch to their lineup.
According to FanGraphs, Torres has a wRC+ of 115, indicating that he is 15% above the league average in terms of offensive production. He also has a decent walk rate and strikeout rate, suggesting a disciplined approach at the plate. While his defensive metrics have been inconsistent, he is generally considered an average defender at second base.
Potential Trade Scenarios for Torres
If the Tigers were to pursue a trade for Gleyber Torres, they would likely have to part with some of their top prospects. The Yankees, who are always looking to bolster their farm system, would likely demand a package of young, promising players in exchange for Torres. The Tigers’ farm system, which is considered one of the best in baseball, has several players who could be of interest to the Yankees.
Some potential trade scenarios could involve the Tigers sending a package of pitching prospects and position players to the Yankees in exchange for Torres. The specific players involved would depend on the Yankees’ needs and the Tigers’ willingness to part with certain assets. However, a trade for Torres would likely require the Tigers to give up some of their top young talent.
Impact on the Tigers’ Lineup
If the Tigers were to acquire Gleyber Torres, he would likely slot into the starting lineup at second base. His addition would provide a boost to the team’s offense and add some much-needed versatility. He could also provide some protection for the team’s younger hitters and help them develop their offensive skills.
With Torres in the lineup, the Tigers would have a more balanced and potent offense. His switch-hitting ability would give manager A.J. Hinch more flexibility in constructing the lineup, and his power potential would provide a much-needed boost to the team’s home run numbers. Overall, the addition of Torres would make the Tigers a more competitive team.
Final Thoughts: Could Torres Be a Tiger?
The Detroit Tigers’ acquisition of Kyle Finnegan has sparked speculation about whether they could make another move to acquire Gleyber Torres from the New York Yankees. While a trade for Torres would require the Tigers to part with some of their top prospects, it could be a move that significantly improves their team and increases their chances of competing for a playoff spot.
Ultimately, whether or not the Tigers pursue a trade for Torres will depend on their evaluation of his value and their willingness to part with the necessary assets. However, with the Tigers looking to improve their roster and compete in a tough AL Central division, a trade for Torres could be a move that makes sense for both teams.
Leave a Reply