Insider says Tigers’ trade deadline will feature this top prospect being shopped

With the MLB trade deadline just over a month away, speculation is mounting — and the Detroit Tigers, currently boasting the best record in the majors, are a popular topic of interest. Armed with a surprisingly deep roster and an open competitive window, the Tigers appear primed to make a move that could bolster their chances at a legitimate October run. And according to MLB insider Jason Beck, the team might already have the perfect trade chip to get a deal done.

Beck put the spotlight on infielder Max Anderson, the Tigers’ No. 21 prospect and 2023 second-round pick, as the most logical piece to dangle in trade discussions. The 23-year-old has been quietly putting on a show at Double-A Erie, but Detroit’s infield depth may ultimately make him the odd man out.

Detroit's trade deadline strategy may hinge on prospect Max Anderson

“The Tigers’ No. 21 prospect and 2023 second-round Draft pick has quietly been raking at Double-A Erie,” Beck wrote. “But he’s seemingly caught in an infield logjam in the Tigers system.”

That infield logjam is real. Gleyber Torres and Colt Keith are entrenched in the big leagues. Jace Jung and Hao-Yu Lee are knocking on the door at Triple-A Toledo. And a surging Kevin McGonigle is flashing serious upside at High-A West Michigan. Anderson, while talented, is beginning to look like the expendable piece that helps fill a more pressing need elsewhere.

Anderson profiles as a bat-first infielder. His strong contact skills and knack for delivering in run-producing situations have made him a steady contributor. 

Defensively, Anderson is solid but limited. His frame restricts his lateral range, and his arm likely rules out a long-term move to third base. That may cap his versatility, but for teams in need of steady infield production and cost-controlled talent, he’s an intriguing asset.

If the Tigers are shopping Anderson, it’s almost certainly to address one of two areas: bullpen depth or a legitimate upgrade at third base. Though the team’s bullpen has held up admirably, there’s always room for a veteran arm or two come postseason time. Third base, however, looms as the position where the Tigers could use the most help — especially if they’re seeking more offensive punch.

Many suggest close eyes should be kept on the Arizona Diamondbacks. Detroit and Arizona have been loosely linked as a trade deadline match. The D-backs feature several players who could be moved before the deadline — most notably third baseman Eugenio Suárez and veteran reliever Shelby Miller, both of whom are on expiring contracts. If Arizona falls out of the race, they’re a prime candidate to sell, and Detroit could be one of the more aggressive suitors.

In that kind of scenario, Anderson becomes a key piece. He’s young, controllable, and redundant in the Tigers’ long-term picture — making him exactly the type of player rebuilding or retooling clubs look to acquire.

With a top-tier record and October aspirations, the Tigers know they can’t stand pat. While big-splash deals aren’t always necessary, strategic upgrades definitely are. And if Anderson’s breakout is enough to fetch a high-leverage bullpen arm and/or upgrade the hot corner, Detroit’s front office should explore it.