Detroit Tigers should trade Shane Greene for second baseman

Jurickson Profar

You may have guessed by the teaser, but the Tigers could certainly explore a deal with the Rangers that would bring them infielder Jurickson Profar.

It’s hard to believe Profar is only 24. Baseball America’s number one prospect after the 2012 season, Profar was considered a can’t miss superstar shortstop.

Unfortunately, injuries and ineffectiveness have derailed his career.

Profar hit just .172 in 58 at-bats with the Rangers last season. He was considerably better at Triple-A, where he hit .287 with a .383 on-base percentage and a 116 wRC+.

He also had a 11.2% walk-rate compared to a minuscule 8.6% strikeout rate at Triple-A.

Profar was not recalled by the Rangers late in the season and strongly voiced his displeasure. He felt his performance in Triple-A merited a call up. It seems likely that the Rangers will deal their disgruntled middle infielder, and the Tigers should use this opportunity to pounce.

Profar played everywhere around the infield last season in Texas, and also spent considerable time in left field. He graded out as a positive defender at second base in 2016 but only saw two innings there in 2017.

Still, the Tigers should take a chance on Profar to be their every day second baseman.

The Rangers are connected to nearly every relief pitcher on the market.

Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News indicates that they are willing to make trades to acquire pitching:

Greene would slot in as the most reliable late-inning option in the Rangers bullpen.

The Rangers already have Rougned Odor and Elvis Andrus on board, along with utility man Drew Robinson and recently acquired Willie Calhoun.

They can afford to part with Profar to acquire a much-needed late inning reliever.

Finally, the Tigers could look to ship Greene up to Boston for a second baseman.