Detroit Tigers: Why A Potential Justin Wilson Trade Return Should Be Significant

If Justin Wilson is Dealt

Should the Detroit Tigers decide to trade Justin Wilson, a similar return to the one Milwaukee received for Thornburg would make sense.

The Tigers are looking to contend. At this point, dealing Wilson for a couple of pitchers in Rookie ball simply isn’t going to help.

That being said, if Detroit can acquire a controllable, young, Major League player with ability and upside—as well as a prospect for the future—it would benefit the team in the long run.

What’s more, Detroit can afford to move Wilson given the team’s sudden depth in the bullpen. Bruce Rondon, Shane Greene and Joe Jimenez all represent hard-throwing options for Brad Ausmus, while Alex Wilson, Kyle Ryan and Blaine Hardy can provide quality innings.

This is all without mentioning Mark Lowe, who could rebound, as well as potential rookies in Victor Alcantara, Chad Bell and Myles Jaye who could contribute.

There’s also the possibility of a converted starting pitcher or two making the switch to the bullpen next season.

Anibal Sanchez showed well in a limited role as a reliever last season. With a crowded rotation, he could conceivably pitch in relief next season.

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Mike Pelfrey and Buck Farmer are two other starters who could transition into relieving. However, Sanchez, Pelfrey and Farmer would likely be more depth options that would allow the likes of Hardy and Ryan to pitch later in games.