Tigers Rumors: Could Detroit target Angels outfielder at trade deadline?

The Tigers' outfield took three hits in quick succession when they lost Akil Baddoo, Parker Meadows, and Matt Vierling to injury within the span of around 10 days, eliminating center field options deep into the roster. Meadows was already slated as the everyday player out there, Vierling would've been able to take over on off-days, and Baddoo was the Tigers' resident call-up option in the event of injury.

None of them will be ready by Opening Day (Meadows' timeline is still up in the air, but the prognosis doesn't look great). The Tigers could shift Riley Greene to center or give Wenceel Pérez more time there, but both are much better corner outfielders and have a lot more experience in left and right.

The Tigers could still make a trade or turn to the free agent market despite spring training being well underway. There are a few outfielders left in free agency, including Alex Verdugo and former Tiger Robbie Grossman, but Cody Stavenhagen of The Athletic identified a potential trade candidate in the Angels' Taylor Ward who might be better suited (subscription required).

The Athletic identifies Angels outfielder Taylor Ward as potential fit for Tigers after Parker Meadows injury

Stavenhagen was quick to add that if the Angels haven't traded Ward by now, they probably wouldn't be inclined to do so this close to Opening Day, despite some trade rumors popping up around him in January. However, the Tigers could keep an eye on him deeper into the season if Meadows' injury turns out to be long-lasting (though everyone should be keeping their fingers crossed that it won't be).

Ward would certainly be a much better option than either Verdugo or Grossman. Verdugo is both ineffective an a reportedly difficult clubhouse presence while Grossman is just ineffective; and neither have spent much time in center field anyway. Ward, however, would also come with some of that defensive versatility the Tigers love due to his experience at third base.

It probably wouldn't take too much for the Tigers to get Ward if they really pushed; the Angels have one of the worst farm systems in baseball (the worst, by some accounts) and the Tigers have one of the best. But having to wait and see how Meadows progresses with his injury will probably keep them from being able to get anything done before Opening Day. Still, if things do pan out poorly, then Ward could be an option they revisit later in the season.