Report: Justin Verlander expected to enter trade market soon

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MLB: Cleveland Indians at Detroit Tigers
Sep 27, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) pitches in the first inning against the Cleveland Indians at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Currently sitting 34-43, the Detroit Tigers are 6.5 games out of the lead in the American League Central, and 6.5 games out of a wild-card spot. It’s same to say the 2017 season has been underwhelming up to this point.

If the team continues trending in the same overall direction, it’s only a matter of time until the rumor mill inevitably begins using Tigers players as fodder. While there aren’t any credible rumors regarding individual players at this point, a report surfaced on Wednesday indicating that there may be a timeline on when we can expect things to heat up.

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According to a report from Jeff Passan of Yahoo Sports, multiple front office executives across the league expect Justin Verlander to be entered into the trade market over the course of the next couple weeks. This is no solid indication that general manager Al Avila has approached Verlander about a trade — Verlander would have to waive his 10-5 no-trade rights for any deal to be consummated — but it stands to show where opposing executives currently view the state of the Tigers.

 

MLB: Baltimore Orioles at Detroit Tigers
Sep 11, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Justin Verlander (35) pitches in the first inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

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Verlander’s contract, which sees him paid $56 million over the next two years, might be the biggest obstacle to overcome in any potential trade discussions. To go with that particular obstacle is the fact that Verlander has under-performed this season, fresh on the heels of a season that saw him finish second in the American League Cy Young vote.

His 5-4 record and 4.47 ERA aren’t exactly screaming for teams to jump at the opportunity to trade for his lofty contract. His strikeouts are still there, 92 in 94 2/3 innings, but a WHIP (walks and hits divided by innings pitched) 1.447 is well higher than his career average of 1.195.

Perhaps a fresh start with a competitive team would be what Verlander needs to regain his form. Perhaps nothing happens with him as the deadline approaches. There are plenty of questions, but one thing is certain right now. The next few weeks will be very interesting for the Tigers.

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