2 trade doors Tigers, Scott Harris just opened after Framber Valdez signing

Spring training may be starting next week, but the Detroit Tigers have only received clarity on their offseason within the past couple of days.

Framber Valdez has emerged as the big-ticket addition to the major league roster, and Tarik Skubal is set to earn $32 million in his final season before becoming a free agent. Suddenly, it's clear that Scott Harris and Co. are going for it in 2026, and that should open up new opportunities on the trade market.

The trade market can't be mentioned without an update on where things stand with Skubal. Sure, the Tigers lost the arbitration hearing, but the expectation is that they will hold onto him to start the season. In the event that things fall completely off the rails by July, maybe Skubal is the big fish available ahead of the trade deadline, but chances are Detroit will be a buyer.

With the signing of Valdez, the Tigers have picked a lane. Detroit fully plans on contending this season, and that is why Harris shouldn't wait until the deadline to make moves. Now is the chance to strike.

2 trade doors Tigers, Scott Harris just opened after Framber Valdez signing

Houston Astros and Isaac Paredes

The Tigers have a need at third base. It certainly would be a best-case scenario if Kevin McGonigle debuts and becomes an immediate fixture in the team's starting lineup, but depending on an unproven prospect--regardless of the hype--can be a dangerous game for a contender.

Perhaps the Tigers look in the direction of old friend Isaac Paredes. Paredes has emerged as an All-Star third baseman since his initial run in Detroit, and the Houston Astros have backed themselves into a corner with an infield logjam.

Trading Christian Walker is likely the desired outcome for the Astros, but Paredes' contract is easier to move. Houston is also in need of a farm system refresh, and the Tigers could help them with their efforts.

St. Louis Cardinals and Lars Nootbaar

The Cardinals have embraced the reset this offseason. Already out the door are Sonny Gray, Willson Contreras, Nolan Arenado, and Brendan Donovan. The teardown isn't believed to be over with outfielder Lars Nootbaar having the impression of a clear trade candidate.

The Tigers could use some stability in their outfield, and Nootbaar would be an easy way to check that box. He's registered a wRC+ over 110 in three of the last four seasons, and is under control through the 2027 season.

St. Louis has been eyeing pitching prospects in the deals that they've made, and while the Tigers may not have an elite pitching prospect in their system, they have several within the Top 20 that could be packaged to make a run at the 28-year-old outfielder.