Detroit Tigers: Exploring Jordan Zimmermann Trade Scenarios

The Brewers

The Brewers presently have Jimmy Nelson, Zach Davies and Brent Suter all on the disabled list. It has left their rotation depth barren, and they are currently relying on veteran Wade Miley to hold down a spot.

Zimmermann would give them added depth in the rotation, something they sorely need if they want to remain in the hunt in the NL Central. Plus, it has the added bonus of adding a hometown hero. Zimmermann attended college at local Wisconsin-Stevens Point, and would very likely accept a trade to his hometown team.

Of course, like the Tigers, the Brewers are not a big market team and likely don’t have $56 million lying around to pay Zimmermann over the next three years. Any trade between these two teams would likely involve the Tigers eating most, if not all, of Zimmermann’s contract.

The flip side of that is that the Tigers can ask for a slightly higher prospect capital if they are basically giving away a serviceable starting pitcher like Zimmermann.

The Brewers have a farm system rich in toolsy outfield prospects, and the Tigers would be wise to try to grab one or two of them in exchange for Zimmermann.

Here are a few to keep an eye on:

Troy Stokes, Jr. – Stokes is a 22-year-old outfielder with 17 home runs and 18 stolen bases on the year for AA Biloxi.

Micah Bello – Bello was Milwaukee’s competitive balance pick this year, picked 73rd overall. He is one of the fastest players in the MiLB, and has already swiped 10 bases in 34 professional games.

Je’Von Ward – Ward was a 12th rounder last year who has done nothing but hit since he was selected.

If the Brewers do take on a fair amount of salary, Detroit could target some much more off-the-radar prospects, including 1B Ernesto Martinez, OF Pablo Abreu, and IF Yeison Coca.