Despite losing three of their last six games, the Detroit Tigers continue to lead both the American League Central and all of Major League Baseball with a 42-24 record. Their success is fueled by a strong pitching staff—ranked fourth in ERA at 3.15—and an offense that ranks fourth in total runs scored with 325. While this solid performance suggests the Tigers don’t urgently need to make moves before the trade deadline, it doesn’t mean they shouldn’t consider upgrading. According to ESPN’s top MLB insider Jeff Passan, one potential target is Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette—viewed as more of a “luxury addition” than a necessity.
Bichette, the 27-year-old son of former All-Star Dante Bichette, has been frequently mentioned in trade rumors this season. He’s in the final year of a three-year, $33.6 million extension he signed before 2023 to avoid arbitration. That deal expires after this season, making him a potential rental player for interested teams. Passan believes Bichette’s power to the gaps would be a good fit at Detroit’s Comerica Park and would strengthen a lineup already performing above expectations.
Though he didn’t hit any home runs in April, Bichette rebounded with seven in May and a slugging percentage over .500. Passan notes the Tigers don’t have many holes to fill, but with their farm system depth, they could afford to trade for a high-end player like Bichette. While Toronto would likely ask for a significant return, Bichette’s rental status might lower the cost somewhat. A package including Detroit’s No. 2 prospect, shortstop Kevin McGonigle—who is still likely two years away from MLB—and major-league-ready pitcher Troy Melton, who has a 3.30 ERA with Triple-A Toledo this season, could be enough to land the two-time All-Star.
