MLB Detroit Tigers

5 Detroit Tigers Rumored To Be Trade Bait This Offseason

5 Detroit Tigers Rumored To Be Trade Bait This Offseason

Tigers Dugout
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

In 2014, the Detroit Tigers once again fell short of their ultimate goal of winning their first World Series championship since 1984. Although some fear that Detroit's window may be growing smaller, the Tigers still appear to be very dedicated to winning. With the Winter Meetings right around the corner, now may be a good time to discuss possible trade chips. Here are five Tigers who have come up in trade rumors.

5. Ian Kinsler

IanKinsler
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

5. Ian Kinsler

IanKinslercopy
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

In 2014, Ian Kinsler arguably provided the most stability the Tigers have had at second base since Placido Polanco left. Although Detroit appears very unlikely to trade the All-Star second baseman, some have speculated it might make sense as his value is likely quite high at the moment, and the Tigers have a few up-and-coming middle infielders. Nevertheless, it is a rather unpopular concept among most Tigers fans, and understandably so.

4. Eugenio Suarez

EugenioSuarez
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

4. Eugenio Suarez

EugenioSuarezcopy
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Due to their depth at the middle infield positions, some have wondered if the Tigers might dangle Eugenio Suarez out there. Suarez showed flashes of promise in 2014, hitting .242 with four homers and 23 RBIs, but with Jose Iglesias set to return, Suarez's role with the Tigers would likely be that of a utility infielder. The fact that the Tigers just traded second base prospect Devon Travis, however, may make Suarez less likely to be dealt.

3. Rick Porcello

RickPorcello
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

3. Rick Porcello

RickPorcelloCopy
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

In years past, Rick Porcello's name has popped up in trade rumors, and it is happening once again this year. Teams such as the Miami Marlins and Boston Red Sox have been rumored to have interest, although talks have reportedly not been too serious. Despite a rough September, Porcello had a career year in 2014, posting a 15-13 record, 3.43 ERA and a 1.23 WHIP with three complete-game shutouts. He is slated to become a free agent after 2015.

2. David Price

DavidPrice
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

2. David Price

DavidPriceCopy
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

2012 AL Cy Young award winner David Price has also been mentioned in trade rumors. Some have speculated that if the Tigers want to re-sign Max Scherzer, it would likely mean trading another one of their starting pitchers, and Price has been pointed to as one of the candidates. It seems unlikely, but it is something that has been floated out there nevertheless. Like Porcello, Price will also be headed for free agency after the 2015 season.

1. Alex Avila

AlexAvila
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

1. Alex Avila

AlexAvilacopy
Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

The Tigers may have picked up Alex Avila's option for the 2015 season, but some rumors suggest that the Tigers may entertain the thought of dealing him. Some have wondered if the Tigers might be interested in trading for another catcher, but the club already has Bryan Holaday and James McCann, who could possibly be able to handle the catching duties in 2015 all by themselves if need be.

Share Tweet