MLB Rumors: 3 Tigers On Trade Block

This season has not gone as planned for the Detroit Tigers. They sit at 26-43, with the 3rd-worst record in the American League. All signs point to them being sellers over the summer, as we approach the Aug. 2nd trade deadline.

According to MLB Insider Jon Heyman, at least three players that the Tigers will be looking to move include outfielder Robbie Grossman and relievers Michael Fulmer and Gregory Soto.

Heyman reports, however, that in regards to their closer, Soto, "one rival GM said that while he anticipates they will ask for a haul, they shouldn’t expect one; although he’s talented, that exec said he’s been somewhat 'erratic.'"

Soto was an All-Star in 2021, posting 18 saves, but by walking an extremely high 40 batters in 63 innings, he walked a tightrope on more than one occasion, making every appearance an adventure. His walk rate is slightly better this year (4.3/9 compared to an untenable 5.7/9), but that volatility is still there. 

Soto has recorded 13 saves thus far, with a 2.88 ERA.

Fulmer is another high-leverage bullpen piece that should be moved; he was the Rookie of the Year in 2016 as a starter, but after elbow injuries knocked him into the bullpen, he's been a nice late-inning piece the past two years. 

Grossman had a 20-20 campaign last season (23 HR, 20 SB) while putting up a .772 OPS with a .239 average. This year his production has cratered to .206 with a .584 OPS and just two homers and two stolen bases in 54 games. It's uncertain what kind of return he can generate. 

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