Detroit Tigers: Three Potential Francisco Rodriguez Trades

Detroit Tigers closer Francisco Rodriguez recently completed his first season in Motown. The closer solidified the back end of the bullpen with 44 saves. If he’s dealt, the Tigers could receive a solid return.

Detroit Tigers fans are likely to see a different looking team come Opening Day next season.

General manager Al Avila is looking to make the Tigers younger and less costly. That means a number of veteran players could be dealt.

Among some of the names that could be moved are J.D. Martinez, Ian Kinsler and Cameron Maybin. While it remains to be seen if Detroit will move any of the three, one other player who could wind up elsewhere is Francisco Rodriguez.

According to Spotrac, the pitcher has a $6 million dollar option on his contract for next season.

Should the Tigers exercise that option, they could either keep him as the team’s closer for 2017, or trade him.

There are a number of pros and cons to dealing the man commonly referred to as “K-Rod,” but if Rodriguez is traded, Detroit will have options.

The coming offseason will see elite closers like Kenley Jansen, Mark Melancon, Aroldis Chapman and Wade Davis hit the free agent market. With so many options available, the Tigers may be able to flip Rodriguez to a team that misses out on, loses, or is unable to bid on one of the top closers.

Here are three potential trades involving Francisco Rodriguez that would keep the Detroit Tigers competitive next season.