Detroit Tigers: Five Starting Pitching Trades

May 6, 2016; Anaheim, CA, USA; Tampa Bay Rays relief pitcher Erasmo Ramirez (30) pitches during the seventh inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim. Mandatory Credit: Richard Mackson-USA TODAY Sports

Of all the pitchers on this list, Erasmo Ramirez is probably the least likely to be traded due to his excellent performances this season, and the Rays only being three games out of first base.

Ramirez is 5-1 on the season with a 1.42 ERA in 25.1 innings pitched. What’s interesting is that only one of his appearances has been a start. The fact that Tampa Bay has been using him as a swingman might make them slightly more inclined to deal him as opposed to if he were a full-time starter.

That being said, it’s hard to ignore the potential fit in Detroit.

The former Mariner could start for as long as the Detroit Tigers need him to—and, if necessary, move to the bullpen. This would improve the team’s outlook in both departments. Ramirez wouldn’t be blocking the path of Fulmer, Norris or Boyd, while giving the team a dependable option that can excel in both a starting or relief role.

Next: Odd Lineup and No Offense

In 34 appearances last season (27 starts), Ramirez posted an 11-6 record with a 3.75 ERA and 126 strikeouts in 163.1 innings pitched. Since moving to Tampa before the 2015 season, the pitcher has accumulated a 3.6 WAR.

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