Detroit Tigers offseason priority should be finding young position players to build around
By Ben Rosener
Shane Greene
Unlike with Kinsler at second base—not to mention a handful of other positions—Detroit has a ready-made replacement for Greene in Alex Wilson.
Elsewhere, there is a steady stream of relievers moving through the system.
Joe Jimenez, Jairo Labourt, Zac Reininger and Victor Alcantara all debuted this season. Next season, Bryan Garcia, Mark Ecker and Paul Voelker could join them in the Majors.
A controllable reliever with a knack for stranding runners, as well as the ability to pitch in a variety of different roles, Greene stands out as arguably Detroit’s best trade chip.
Moving the closer would allow the Tigers to net a premium return while paving the way for Alex Wilson to take over as closer.
Additionally, there should be no shortage of a market for Greene if Detroit decides to move him.
It would be a different story with a player like Kinsler or Iglesias, as many teams already have a solution at second base or shortstop.
However, all teams need relievers, especially quality ones like Greene.
He would be a fit on a team seeking a closer as well as a team in search of an extra late-inning option. The right-hander could also appeal to clubs as a pitcher able to work in a multiple inning, Andrew Miller-type role.