Detroit Tigers: Should they target Neil Walker?

New York Yankees

The New York Yankees dealt away starting second baseman Starlin Castro in order to acquire Giancarlo Stanton. They may want to add Walker while they wait for uber-prospect Gleyber Torres to take over. However, Torres could be ready as soon as opening day. And if he isn’t, the team has utility-man Ronald Torreyes who is capable of filling in. It seems like a deal for Walker would only be of the one-year variety, if they offer anything at all.

Boston Red Sox

Dustin Pedroia is going to miss a good chunk of the season with an injury. The Red Sox could consider adding Walker as a temporary replacement. However, they are closely connected to a reunion with Eduardo Nunez instead. Plus, Walker may not want to sign with a team where he is only guaranteed a starting role for a few months.

A rebuilding team

Both of those teams are a stretch, but they represent the clearest options for Walker at this point. Walker’s best bet may be to join a rebuilding team on a short contract and hit the open market again in a year or two. This would open up his options considerably as free agency draws near.

The Tampa Bay Rays, San Diego Padres and Atlanta Braves are three teams with very little depth at the keystone. While none of those teams are keen to spend a lot of money this offseason, Walker would be a significant upgrade. He would likely draw interest at a reasonable price.

The Pirates, the team Walker spent his first seven big league seasons with, could certainly fit that bill as well if they trade Josh Harrison, whom they are rumored to be shopping.

All this leads to the Tigers, who on paper represent a good fit for Walker.