Detroit Tigers: 2 reasons to trade for Kahlil Watson, 1 reason not to

Aug 1, 2021; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Marlins Kahlil Watson, No. 16 overall pick in the 2021 MLB Draft, takes on the field to meet media members prior the game between the New York Yankees and the Miami Marlins at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 1, 2021; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Marlins Kahlil Watson, No. 16 overall pick in the 2021 MLB Draft, takes on the field to meet media members prior the game between the New York Yankees and the Miami Marlins at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
2 of 3

Reason 2: He’ll probably cost very little

Detroit Tigers
MIAMI, FLORIDA – APRIL 14: General manager Kim Ng of the Miami Marlins looks on prior to the game against the Philadelphia Phillies at loanDepot park on April 14, 2022 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

The Marlins have virtually no leverage in this situation. They are keeping him out of games for disciplinary reasons without any input from MLB. There’s a chance he doesn’t play again this season, and possibly not ever again for Miami.

The Marlins can’t really set a price on Watson if they aren’t going to allow him to play. Because of that, he shouldn’t cost very much in a trade, and that heavily benefits a team like the Detroit Tigers.

To get a player of his talent at a low price would be huge for the organization, even if he’s only in Low-A. Even if he doesn’t work out as a middle infielder, he’s athletic enough to where they could throw him in the outfield.

It could just be a simple prospect swap. It could be a prospect and cash. Heck, it could even be similar to what the Atlanta Braves and Kansas City Royals pulled off yesterday by trading a draft pick and a prospect or two for him.

Either way, it shouldn’t be too difficult to acquire Watson. It’s a potential low(ish)-risk, high reward deal, and that’s exactly what the Tigers are looking for.

Schedule