Detroit Tigers: Three Potential Ian Kinsler Trades

Aug 9, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers second baseman Ian Kinsler (3) hits a double in the first inning against the Boston Red Sox at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 9, 2015; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers second baseman Ian Kinsler (3) hits a double in the first inning against the Boston Red Sox at Comerica Park. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Sep 4, 2014; Cleveland, OH, USA; Detroit Tigers second baseman Ian Kinsler (3) celebrates his base hit beside Cleveland Indians shortstop Jose Ramirez (11) in the 11th inning at Progressive Field. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports /

Detroit Tigers general manager Al Avila will be reshaping the team. Avila wants the Tigers to be younger and more cost-efficient. Here are three trades involving Ian Kinsler that would keep Detroit competitive.

Detroit Tigers second baseman Ian Kinsler has been one of baseball’s best second baseman since joining the team before the 2014 campaign.

Since moving to Detroit in exchange for Prince Fielder, Kinsler has hit .286 with a .332 on-base percentage. Per season, he’s averaged 184 hits, 104 runs scored, 83 RBI, 35 doubles, 19 home runs, 13 stolen bases and five triples.

The veteran’s best campaign came in just last year when he mashed 28 home runs while driving in 83 runs. Kinsler also posted a .348 on-base percentage, his highest since 2011.

However, if Avila starts to move expensive contracts, Kinsler could conceivably be moved.

Obviously, the best case scenario would see Kinsler stay in Motown, but his contract makes him much more movable than the likes of Anibal Sanchez, Mike Pelfrey or Mark Lowe. What’s more, Tigers could receive a premium haul of players in return for the 34-year-old.

While it still remains to be seen whether the Tigers actually deal Kinsler, here are three possible trade scenarios involving the second baseman. All three hypothetical deals would keep Detroit competitive next season.