Detroit Tigers have personnel to trade some veterans, still contend

Current and future implications

The Detroit Tigers would obviously be a much different looking team without J.D. Martinez, Justin Wilson and Jose Iglesias, but there’s reason to believe that the team can be successful.

Minnesota likely won’t stay atop the American League Central all season, and the jumbled standings in the American League at the moment still has every team still in the playoff picture.

Additionally, with some of the veterans—and perhaps expectations—gone, Detroit could potentially benefit without any pressure heaped on them and start stringing wins together.

The team would be in an excellent position moving forward from a salary standpoint.

According to Spotrac, Martinez will make $11.75 million this year. Per the same source, Wilson is earning $2.7 million, while Iglesias is making $4.1 million.

Dealing the trio would shave $18.55 million off Detroit’s salary this season.

This puts the team in an excellent position heading into 2018, with a number of other deals coming the books.

Detroit will no longer have to pay Mike Pelfrey and Mark Lowe, two pitchers who are no longer with the organization.

Pelfrey is being paid $8 million this season according to Spotrac, while Lowe is making $5.5 million (also per Spotrac).

Francisco Rodriguez’ deal will also come off the books, while Anibal Sanchez could also reach free agency.

The veteran starter has a $16 million option on his deal for next season that can be bought out for $5 million (according to Spotrac).

However, at this point, if Sanchez continues to turn in quality outings, the team could trade him as well, with Matt Boyd serving as a replacement.

Regardless, the Detroit Tigers are in a position to add some premium talent while still staying competitive.

Next: Regardless of if team buys or sells, young position players are needed to build around

Making these trades could help both now and later as the Tigers look to build a sustainable winner.