Detroit Tigers: Three Potential Ian Kinsler Trades

Scenario #3 Detroit Tigers Trade Ian Kinsler and Mark Lowe to the St. Louis Cardinals for Kolten Wong and prospects Zac Gallen and Corey Littrell

Somewhat similar to the San Francisco Giants, the St. Louis Cardinals’ starting second baseman struggled last season. Kolten Wong hit just .240 with 23 RBI, a .115 ISO and an 85 wRC+.

While Jedd Gyorko stepped up with 30 home runs and a 111 wRC+ at second, St. Louis may need him to shift to third base, where Jhonny Peralta turned in a -0.5 WAR and a .305 wOBA.

Adding Kinsler would give the team a much improved infield that could propel the Cardinals to a deep postseason run.

In return, the Tigers would receive Wong, who despite the struggles has plenty of upside. From 2014 to 2015 the 26-year-old hit .257. Over the same span, he averaged 62 runs scored, 52 RBI, 21 doubles, 18 stolen bases, 12 home runs and four triples in 132 games per season.

Additionally, per to Spotrac, the infielder is on an extremely team-friendly contract. Wong is slated to make just $2.5 million in 2017.

Following that, he’ll make $4 million in 2018, $6.5 million in 2019 and $10.25 million in 2020. His employers have a $12.5 million club option for the 2021 season that also comes with a $1 million buyout.

The Prospects

Heading to Detroit with Wong are two pitchers with the upside to contribute to the Major League roster.

A third-round pick in 2016, Gallen showed well in his professional debut this season. The right-hander allowed just seven hits in 9.2 innings while striking out 15 in rookie ball. He also posted a 1.86 ERA and has the look of a future starter in the majors.

While Gallen is a few years away from reaching the Majors, Littrell could pitch out of Detroit’s bullpen next season. The reliever owns a 3.95 ERA in the minors. The former Red Sox prospect also fanned 8.5 batters per nine innings combined at Double-A and Triple-A last season.