Tigers could eye Cubs to plug major roster hole before spring training

The Detroit Tigers could stand to add another starting pitcher to their rotation, regardless of the outcome of Tarik Skubal's arbitration hearing. Detroit has been linked to potential reunions with Max Scherzer or Justin Verlander, and more recently, among the teams expressing interest in Lucas Giolito.

None of those three would be considered a long-term option. Both Scherzer and Verlander seem be knocking on the door of retirement, and while they would address the need the Tigers have, it feels like more of a nostalgia play. Even Giolito, in recent years, hasn't been the ace that he once was with the Chicago White Sox.

The easy solution for the Tigers would be to sign Framber Valdez. Valdez's character concerns are a red flag, but the connection to A.J. Hinch could quell those fears. Of course, the reason this won't be the solution is money.

Which brings us to our next point: if the Tigers are going to be taking a gamble in their search for help in the rotation, they may as well look for a young, cost-controlled starting pitcher who might be available on the trade market. The Chicago Cubs may be the team to offer that lifeline.

Former Chicago Cubs first-round pick would be a smart upside play for the Detroit Tigers.

The Cubs addressed their need in the rotation this offseason by trading for Edward Cabrera. They don't appear to be stopping there, expressing interest in Zac Gallen. The potential arrival of Gallen would push both Javier Assad and former 2021 first-round pick Jordan Wicks down the depth chart.

Considering Assad's success as a swing man in the past, and the fact that he has minor-league options available, the Cubs likely prefer to keep him. Wicks could be the odd man out, especially because he was only used as an up-and-down arm for Chicago last season.

Wicks made his debut with the Cubs in 2023 and had the impression of being a long-term solution in the Cubs' rotation. He struggled in 2024, posting a 5.48 ERA in 46 innings, and never quite recovered. The 26-year-old needs a change of scenery, and the Tigers would be an ideal landing spot.

The added benefit is that Wicks is a pre-arbitration player and under team control through the 2030 season. It's a long-term play for the Tigers with the hope that his upside is maximized in Detroit. By no means is it the ideal solution to their need in the rotation, but one that their inactivity suggests they should explore.