Detroit Tigers: Four Relief Pitcher Trades Tigers Should Make

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May 11, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; San Diego Padres relief pitcher Fernando Rodney, left, reacts next to first baseman Wil Myers, right, after a 1-0 win against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports /

Fernando Rodney, San Diego Padres

Old friend Fernando Rodney has been exceptionally good when throwing a baseball this season. The 39-year-old, who signed with the Tigers as an amateur free agent in 1997 and later debuted for the team in 2002, hasn’t allowed a run this season.

Normally, pitchers who haven’t allowed a run by late June are probably going to cost a significant return, but Rodney is 39 and pitches on a rebuilding San Diego squad that entered the week with just 29 wins.

So far, the veteran has notched 14 saves and 27 strikeouts in 25.1 innings pitched. What’s more, Rodney has also contributed a 1.4 WAR.

If Detroit can work out a deal with Rodney and an outfielder—perhaps Jon Jay?—it would be a successful transaction.

As it stands, the Padres need pitching depth, so perhaps a deal involving a lower-level prospect going to San Diego for Rodney would get the deal done. The Tigers could also conceivably offer Tyler Collins or Anthony Gose in a potential trade. San Diego could be in the market for outfield help at the Major League level as it wouldn’t be a shock to see current starters Jay or Melvin Upton Jr. dealt.

Additionally, this may be the best opportunity for the Padres to get something of value in return for Rodney.

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