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MLB Trade Deadline Rumors: 5 trades Cubs should make

By Nicholas Ian Allen

CHICAGO, IL - JUNE 03: Kyle Schwarber #12 of the Chicago Cubs (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, IL - JUNE 03: Kyle Schwarber #12 of the Chicago Cubs (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images) /
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DETROIT, MI – JUNE 2: J.D. Martinez #28 of the Detroit Tigers hits an RBI-double against the Chicago White Sox during the first inning at Comerica Park on June 2, 2017 in Detroit, Michigan. The Tigers defeated the White Sox 15-5. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images)
DETROIT, MI – JUNE 2: J.D. Martinez #28 of the Detroit Tigers hits an RBI-double against the Chicago White Sox during the first inning at Comerica Park on June 2, 2017 in Detroit, Michigan. The Tigers defeated the White Sox 15-5. (Photo by Duane Burleson/Getty Images) /

Alex Avila and J.D. Martinez, Detroit Tigers

This one doesn’t really line up with the Cubs most pressing needs, but the Tigers are 36-44, which is the third worst record in the American League, and are in need of a roster tear down. Several players on Detroit’s active roster have value, and would therefore bring back some much needed talent. Right-handed slugger J.D. Martinez and catcher/first baseman Alex Avila top that list.

Martinez is hitting .298/.385/.640 with 14 home runs and 30 RBI in just 46 games. The 29-year old right-fielder will be a free agent after the season, and is therefore likely available. Given his power, he’s sure to be one of the most highly sought-after players on the entire summer trade market.

The same could be said of the left-handed hitting Avila, who has posted a career best .311/.432/.579 slash along with 11 home runs and 28 RBI in 57 games this season. A free agent after the season, Avila would give the Cubs flexibility behind the plate and at first base should the need arise.

Could the Tigers add some starting pitching into such a deal? If the Cubs are willing to make a truly blockbuster trade, Chicago could inquire about Justin Verlander or Jordan Zimmermann, a pair of high-priced veterans that have underperformed this season. If Detroit is willing to eat some of the money owed either right-hander (both of which have three years on their respective contracts and annual salaries in excess of $20 million), or would give a discount in trade return, the Cubs could be a nice fit for either.

On a similar note, the Cubs could land second baseman Ian Kinsler, whose contract has a $12 million team option and $5 million buyout for 2018, to hit leadoff and play second base down the stretch.

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