This creative Tigers trade could address third base and possibly motivate Jace Jung

Let’s get something straight: the Detroit Tigers’ third base situation has been … a struggle. What once looked like a potential internal solution has too often felt like an embarrassment of a disappointment.

Enter Jace Jung — the young man with a sweet left-handed swing, a loaded pro pedigree, and way more hype than production. In 2025, over 47 Tigers plate appearances, he slashed .106/.236/.106 with zero home runs and just three RBI. Yikes.

Now imagine this: instead of hoping Jace suddenly turns into a superstar at third base, the Tigers bring in his older brother, Josh Jung, from the Texas Rangers — a guy who has already shown big-league impact and All-Star caliber talent when healthy. In 2025 with the Rangers, Josh posted a .251 batting average with 14 home runs and 61 RBI — respectable power production in a tough offensive environment.

First off, Josh is a proven bat with position clarity. He’s been a legitimate everyday third baseman and was even an American League All-Star a few years back before injuries derailed his progress. Yes, he’s battled health issues; but when he’s on the field, he hits with authority and drives the ball. That kind of production — especially in a division where Tigers offense has felt soft — is the kind of injection this roster desperately needs.

Contrast that with Jace’s 2025 line that reads more like a minor-league memory than a major-league future. If the Tigers could flip some bench pieces or a mid-level prospect to the Rangers for Josh Jung, Detroit would get a clear third base solution, a veteran bat, and a change of scenery that could energize both brothers.

Tigers trading for Josh Jung could jumpstart Jace Jung in the process

Picture Jace playing with his brother. Bloodlines don't necessarily guarantee performance — but how many young hitters have flipped a switch when surrounded by a familiar voice in the clubhouse?

Maybe Jace thrives in a new role, maybe he rediscovers his swing in a less pressure-packed environment. Maybe getting to watch Josh struggle and adjust to pitchers day after day gives Jace the live blueprints he’s been missing. The potential narrative — and more importantly, the developmental upside — would be massive.

Don't underestimate the Rangers' willingness, either. With other corner options emerging and a crowded infield picture, they might be willing to listen if Detroit sent over future outfield/bench pieces plus some prospect capital. Texas still likes Jung, but sometimes a fresh start is what a once-special player needs.

Ultimately, this isn’t a desperation move — it’s a strategic upgrade with narrative flair. Tigers fans have watched far too many misfires at third base. Bringing in Josh would not only give Detroit a more reliable bat, it might just light a fire under Jace in a way that staying the course never will.

Call it bold. Call it unorthodox. Call it the Jung Swap. But if Scott Harris is serious about winning and building culture, this is the kind of creative swing that could pay off in 2026 and beyond.