MLB trade rumors: Tigers, Rays talk Justin Wilson

The Tampa Bay Rays are looking to bolster their bullpen by adding a lefty from the Detroit Tigers.

According to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times, the Tampa Bay Rays are interested in adding Justin Wilson, who pitches for the Detroit Tigers.

Wilson has moved from setup to the closer position this season and has performed admirably. He would be a great addition to the Rays, who are playoff contenders. Tampa Bay currently sits three games behind the Boston Red Sox in the American League East. However, they lead the AL Wild Card standings.

Although, Wilson is not the only lefty reliever that the Rays are eyeing. They are also discussing a trade for Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Tony Watson, per Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports. Rosenthal added that they are looking at a “deep list” of candidates.

Wilson might be the best option though. In 37 appearances, Wilson has a 2.29 ERA. If he continues at this pace, it will be a career high. Additionally, he has earned 10 saves, while giving up just 19 hits in 35.1 innings pitched. He’s been one of the sole bright spots for a struggling Tigers team. Detroit is currently six games back of the Cleveland Indians in the AL Central.

Furthermore, Wilson would not be a burden when it comes to salary. He will make just $2.7 million this season and is locked up through 2018.

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Meanwhile, both Joel Sherman of the New York Post and Jason Beck of MLB.com are reporting that the Tigers and Rays aren’t very close to a deal. Sherman says that the price that the Tigers are looking for is a bit too high. Detroit would love a talented prospect in return for Wilson.

The Tigers’ Wilson will surely be a hot commodity as the trade deadline nears and the Rays appear to be the top candidate.