Detroit Tigers: Rick Porcello Trade Still Paying Dividends

Yoenis Cespedes

In just a half of a season in Detroit, Yoenis Cespedes was one of the best all-around players who has played for the Tigers in recent memory. The slugging outfielder hit .293 with 61 RBI, 28 doubles and 18 home runs. Cespedes also put up a 4.0 WAR in the half season he spent in Motown. To top it off, the 30-year-old also earned a Gold Glove for the time spent in Detroit.

Despite the stellar play of Cespedes, the Tigers were unable to stay in contention, and the veteran was dealt at the trade deadline to the New York Mets. In exchange, Detroit received Michael Fulmer and Luis Cessa.

Alex Wilson

Cespedes wasn’t the only impact player acquired in the Porcello swap. Also joining the team was Alex Wilson, who did everything for the Detroit bullpen upon arrival in 2015.

With Wilson and Blaine Hardy proving to be the only stable relief options in the team’s bullpen after Joakim Soria was dealt, the 29-year-old proved to be one of the most valuable players on the entire roster.

In his debut season, Wilson pitched to a 2.19 ERA in 70 innings. He made a start, finished 16 games and snagged a pair of saves.

Things haven’t gone as swimmingly this season, as the former Boston pitcher has a 4.76 ERA in 22.2 innings pitched. However, Wilson owns 3.91 FIP and has largely been reliable save for a few poor outings.

Gabe Speier

Minor league reliever Gabe Speier spent just one season in the Detroit Tigers organization. The former 19^th-round pick threw 44 innings and put up a 2.86 ERA out of the Western Michigan bullpen.

Last offseason, the 21-year-old was dealt (along with ineffective reliever Ian Krol) to the Braves for center fielder Cameron Maybin. Maybin has been on a tear at the plate since debuting for Detroit this season, hitting .375 with 15 runs scored, nine RBI and five stolen bases.