Detroit Tigers: Analyzing Team’s 40-Man Roster

Detroit Tigers players entered the week at 38-38. A .500 record for a team that is built to contend isn’t going to cut it. If moves are made, Detroit will need to make room on the team’s 25 and 40-man rosters.

Detroit Tigers general manager Al Avila has made an effort to hang on to and develop younger players like Michael Fulmer, Daniel Norris, Matt Boyd and Steven Moya. This marks a significant change from Dave Dombrowski, who routinely dealt top prospects.

As such, a number of players on the Tigers’ 40-man roster are pieces for the future. Like Fulmer, Norris, Boyd and Moya, they aren’t going anywhere. In addition to these younger players, Detroit employs a number of high-priced (and sometimes high-performing) veterans that also aren’t going anywhere.

However, there are some on the 40-man roster who could conceivably be let go if an upgrade comes along.

Here is the Tigers full 40-man roster. This list doesn’t include reliever Drew VerHagen, who is on the 60-day disabled list.

Starting Pitchers: Justin Verlander, Michael Fulmer, Mike Pelfrey, Daniel Norris, Jordan Zimmermann, Matt Boyd and Jairo Labourt.

Relief Pitchers: Buck Farmer, Francisco Rodriguez, Shane Greene, Jeff Ferrell, Blaine Hardy, Justin Wilson, Bruce Rondon, Bobby Parnell, Mark Lowe, Anibal Sanchez, Angel Nesbitt, Alex Wilson, Warwick Saupold and Dustin Molleken.

Catchers: Jarrod Saltalamacchia, James McCann and John Hicks

Infielders: Ian Kinsler, Miguel Cabrera, Andrew Romine, Jose Iglesias, Nick Castellanos, Casey McGehee and Mike Aviles.

Outfielders: Justin Upton, J.D. Martinez, Steven Moya, Cameron Maybin, Tyler Collins and Anthony Gose.

Designated Hitters: Victor Martinez

Here is a breakdown of the roster, including locks to stay and players most likely to be traded or cut if the Tigers make a move.