Detroit Tigers: 10 Players Least Likely to be Traded

#9 Jordan Zimmermann

Age: 30
Position: Starting Pitcher
Controllable Through: 2020
2016 Stat of Note: 1.3 WAR

Similar to Justin Upton, Jordan Zimmermann was signed last offseason to beef up an area of need. While the former National also garnered a hefty contract, he turned in a season that was more or less the opposite of Upton from a production standpoint.

While Upton’s struggled early and came alive down the stretch, Zimmermann got off to a flying start.

The veteran starter didn’t allow a run (earned or otherwise) in his first 19.1 innings with Detroit. Fast forward to early June and the former National’s ERA sat at a sparkling 2.58.

However, from that point forward, Zimmermann was limited by ineffectiveness and injures. The veteran pitched to an 8.77 ERA in 39 innings.

Why the Detroit Tigers Won’t Trade Zimmermann

Also like Upton, the value of Zimmermann’s deal would impact any potential trade. Additionally, according to Spotrac, the starter has a full no-trade clause in his contract through the 2018 season.

Zimmermann’s contract may prohibit a deal, but it may be in the Detroit Tigers best interest to keep him around.

Michael Fulmer, Matt Boyd and Daniel Norris all showed incredible promise last season. However, all three just wrapped up their first full seasons in the Majors.

Outside of Justin Verlander, Detroit’s only other veteran starters are Anibal Sanchez and Mike Pelfrey. The duo hardly did much to inspire confidence last year with ugly starts happening far too often.

Using Zimmermann, who showed improvement late in the season as the Tigers fifth starter may be the most prudent route.