Detroit Tigers Pros and Cons: Trading Francisco Rodriguez

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Sep 9, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Tigers relief pitcher Francisco Rodriguez (57) watches as a ball hit by Baltimore Orioles catcher Matt Wieters (not pictured) pops up for the final out in the ninth inning at Comerica Park. Detroit won 4-3. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports /

Con

Who Replaces Rodriguez?

While the Detroit Tigers bullpen improved last season, there isn’t an obvious candidate to take on Rodriguez’ closing role next year.

Justin Wilson and Shane Greene both flashed closer ability at times, but the duo struggled a fare bit as well.

Meanwhile, it may be too early to insert Bruce Rondon or Joe Jimenez into the closer’s role. Both have the upside and the ability to pitch there, but it may be more prudent to wait a season or two.

With the Tigers unlikely to make any moves that add payroll, the best route for finding a closer for next season may be through a trade of one of their current Major League pieces.

Should Detroit trade one of their more movable pieces, like say J.D. Martinez, they could receive a potentially substation return. That substantial return could include a pitcher capable of stepping in as closer.

Thankfully, with Rondon and Jimenez serving as in-house options for the future, Detroit doesn’t necessarily need a long-term solution.

The Tigers have gone through seasons without a closer before, and didn’t end well. If Rodriguez is moved, the team will need some kind of plan to move forward with.

Next: Best Case Scenario He Stays, but if Tigers Trade Ian Kinsler, Here are 3 Intriguing Options

There’s always the route of trying to unearth a diamond in the rough. However, Detroit shouldn’t depend on that if the team has aspirations of staying competitive next year.

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