Tigers Rumors: Detroit expected to explore trade for Brewers All-Star pitcher

As the Detroit Tigers brace for the possibility of life after Tarik Skubal, they are expected to pursue upgrades to their starting rotation this offseason.

In a recent column for The Athletic (subscription required), former MLB general manager Jim Bowden said that the Tigers are one of several teams "likely to inquire" about Milwaukee Brewers right-hander Freddy Peralta this offseason. Peralta has an $8 million club option for 2026, which the Brewers should almost certainly pick up, but that hasn't stopped trade rumors from swirling. He's coming off the best season of his career, which only further increases his trade value.

Peralta has been performing at an elite level and is working on a very favorable contract, which gives Detroit good upside for relatively low cost if they can pull off a deal. Adding Peralta gives the Tigers a guy who has shown he can pitch deep, get strikeouts, and anchor a staff – all with relatively low risk.

The fact that Peralta’s contract is expiring after 2026 also fits with Detroit’s transitional timeline. They might not need to commit long-term, but can add a big piece now to push forward. The Tigers may be able to out-bid or out-offer other teams given their desire to move up – so if he’s on the market, it’s a “buy” moment.

Tigers expected to inquire about Brewers ace Freddy Peralta, but a potential trade carries risk

To acquire Peralta, Detroit will likely have to give up meaningful prospect assets (which could hinder their long-term growth) or commit payroll or roster flexibility. If that cost is too high, the acquisition may hamper future plans. If Detroit acquires him but cannot retain him beyond 2026, they get a short window to produce. If they commit heavily without extension ability, they risk wasting the asset.

Before inquiring about Peralta, the Tigers should evaluate how many seasons they realistically expect to be competitive with him in the rotation. If they believe they’ll contend in 2027, then one year of him may not be enough; they might want an extension or at least alignment on what's to come. At the very least, they should have a plan B; if they acquire him and he leaves after one year, they still need to have rotation continuity.

Provided Detroit doesn’t overpay and uses this move as part of a larger push to contend, Peralta gives them a strong No. 2 starter at a friendly cost. The key will be managing the trade cost and ensuring additions elsewhere on the roster. We'd imagine, though, that this will cost at least one prospect that will "hurt" when fans hear whatever name it is.