With the MLB Trade Deadline fast approaching on July 31, the Detroit Tigers are in a spot we haven’t seen in a while—they’re buyers, and serious ones at that. After years of rebuilding and waiting on prospects, it finally feels like this team is ready to make some real noise in the American League.
This is a big shift from what we’ve grown used to. For the past few seasons, it felt like the Tigers were always “a year away.” But now? They’re not just playing good baseball—they’re playing meaningful baseball, and the front office is making moves like they believe it, too.
Even the critics are starting to eat their words. R.J. Anderson from CBS Sports admitted he doubted the Tigers coming into 2025, especially after what he called a too-quiet offseason. He didn’t think the team did enough to follow up on last season’s strong finish. Turns out, he might have spoken too soon.
The Tigers didn’t go for flashy headlines this spring, but they made some smart moves that are already paying off. In February, they traded Mason Englert to the Rays for pitching prospect Drew Sommers. Then in March, they picked up Bailey Horn from the Cardinals and outfielder Brewer Hicklen from the Brewers. Hicklen even got the call-up in early April and has been a solid contributor.
What’s great is these deals weren’t just about now—they were about building depth and making the roster stronger from top to bottom. It’s the kind of quiet confidence that shows Detroit is thinking long-term, but also wants to win now.
The biggest reason this team is where it is? Pitching. The rotation has been lights out, posting the best ERA in baseball since the start of the 2024 season. Tarik Skubal is pitching like a man on a mission—and it wouldn’t be surprising to see his name in Cy Young conversations if he keeps this up. The bullpen’s been sharp, too, thanks to A.J. Hinch mixing things up and playing the matchups like a chess master.
But let’s be real—if the Tigers are going to go deep into October, they’ve still got some holes to patch. Third base, in particular, has been shaky. Matt Vierling and Jace Jung have done their best, but injuries and inexperience have made it tough to lock down the hot corner. It’s the one glaring weak spot on an otherwise strong team.
That’s why we keep hearing names like Nolan Arenado pop up in trade rumors. Arenado would be a massive addition—elite defense, veteran bat, playoff experience, the whole package. There’s also talk about Bo Bichette possibly being on Detroit’s radar. Sure, he’s a shortstop, but the bat plays anywhere, and the Tigers could get creative to fit him in.
The front office isn’t stopping there, either. They’re also looking for help in the bullpen and behind the plate. While guys like Tommy Kahnle and Will Vest have held it down late in games, consistency is still a concern. And catcher? The team could use more steady offense there, too. If the Tigers can land a couple more impact pieces before the deadline, this could be the year they finally turn the corner—and give fans something to cheer about in October.
