A prominent MLB insider believes six impact closers should be on the Detroit Tigers’ trade wishlist over the next few weeks. And two in particular are “realistic” options to acquire before the trade deadline.
In a new fan Q&A column, The Athletic’s Jim Bowden was asked who would be the targets if the Tigers pursue a “swing-and-miss” reliever for the back end of the bullpen. In response, the insider and former general manager revealed six names Detroit fans should have on their radar. And two that the club has a strong chance of acquiring.
“Aroldis Chapman of the Red Sox, David Bednar of the Pirates, Félix Bautista of the Orioles, Mason Miller of the Athletics, Ryan Helsley of the Cardinals, and Emmanuel Clase of the Guardians should be among their top trade targets. With Chapman and Bednar being the most realistic acquisitions,” Bowden wrote.
If the Hall of Fame showed more love to closers, Chapman would be in serious consideration. Especially since the 37-year-old is having a dynamite year in his 16th season. Pitching to a 1.25 ERA after 39 appearances. Two-time All-Star Bednar is having another strong season and has tallied 12 saves despite being on an awful Pittsburgh team.
Baltimore closer Felix Bautista has not shown rust after missing a season to rehab from Tommy John surgery. He has 17 saves and has struck out 48 in 32.2 innings. Miller remains one of the league’s prominent flamethrowers. However, after a breakout season in 2024, he has regressed this year. And currently owns a 4.41 ERA in 32 appearances.
While he hasn’t been as dominant as he was when he posted 49 saves and earned All-Star honors for the second time last year, Cardinals closer Helsley has been rock-solid again this season. Putting up a 3.19 ERA and 18 saves. Lastly, Clase is one of the game’s premier closers with three straight seasons of 40 or more saves. He hasn’t had the same insane numbers this year as he had in 2024, but he still remains a top-notch reliever.
