Detroit Tigers trade rumors: Ian Kinsler is not garnering much interest
By Matt Snyder
The Detroit Tigers haven’t fielded many trade calls on second baseman Ian Kinsler, according to Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports.
The Detroit Tigers might find it hard to trade second baseman Ian Kinsler ahead of this month’s trade deadline. According to baseball insider Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports, the Tigers are not fielding many calls regarding the four-time All-Star.
"The Tigers pretty well understood going into trading season that Miguel Cabrera, Justin Upton, Jordan Zimmermann and Victor Martinez were basically untradeable, and with the likelihood now that Verlander isn’t going anywhere and even star second baseman Ian Kinsler’s name is being rarely heard in trade talks"
Kinsler’s bat has taken a step back this year after a fantastic 2016 season — his OPS has fallen to .710 from .831 a year ago — but he remains a steady defender at second base. Even if hits at only an average level in the second half, he still projects to be a three win player in 2017. That makes him a pretty valuable player, especially considering his team-friendly contract.
More from Detroit Jock City
- Tigers Sign Manager A.J. Hinch to Long-Term Extension
- Lions vs. Bears Week 14 Opening Odds Disrespect Detroit
- Former Tigers Celebrate Jim Leyland Hall of Fame Call
- This Pistons Team Could be the Worst in Detroit Sports History
- 4 Free Agents Tigers Should Sign During Winter Meetings
Kinsler is “only” making $11 million this year and his contract stipulates a $10 million club option for next season. He’s incredibly affordable given his expected level of production, even if his bat never again rises to the level of his former production.
The Tigers would like to get cash him in for a quality prospect package, but few contending teams are in need of help at second base. Kinsler could probably play some outfield as well, but he’s played second base exclusively in his major league career aside from a two-inning appearance at third base for the Texas Rangers in 2012.
The club will surely be doing everything they can to find a good trade match for Kinsler, but they’re not going to give away such a valuable asset if a willing trade partner cannot be found.
Kinsler has hit for a good amount of power this season — he’s on pace for 17 or 18 home runs — but he’s had poor results on balls in play with a .251 BABIP that’s nearly 40 points below his career average.
Next: Detroit Tigers All-Time 25-man Roster
Kinsler’s affordability means the Tigers could very well head into 2018 with him penciled in as their starting second baseman while still continuing their efforts to cut payroll. If that’s the case, though, the Tigers will probably look to move him next summer as well.