As the MLB trade deadline approaches, rumors continue to swirl as the Detroit Tigers target a starting pitcher.
So who’s the latest pitcher linked to the Tigers? None other than Michigan native Derek Lowe.
According to Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports, the Tigers are interested in acquiring the veteran righthander Lowe from the Atlanta Braves.
Morosi states that the two sides haven’t had serious talks recently and that Lowe’s salary which entitles him to $6 million for the remainder of this season and $15 million next season could be a barrier for the Tigers. The Tigers under Dave Dombrowski do have trading history with the Braves so it wouldn’t be entirely surprising if they were able to work something out.
Now there may be some questions as to why the Braves would be looking to unload Lowe when they currently sit atop the National League wild card standings? First, Lowe currently owns the second-highest ERA (4.30) among the Braves’ current starters. Second the Braves’ farms system is rich in pitching and third they are seeking a right-handed hitting outfielder.
With that said could the Tigers include Casper Wells or Magglio Ordonez in the deal to help offset some of the cost? Perhaps, however Morosi believes that it may not take the Tigers trading away a position player currently on the roster since Atlanta may be looking to save money and get that right-handed hitting outfielder from another team.
Source: ESPN.com, FOXSports.net