Detroit Tigers’ Roster Moves and Trade Considerations
The Detroit Tigers have made a notable roster move by calling up prospect Max Clark. This decision has drawn attention, particularly regarding its timing ahead of the MLB Trade Deadline. Clark, the No. 3 pick in the 2023 draft, was batting .276 with an .802 OPS at Triple A, and had 21 stolen bases in 23 attempts. His promotion means he will exceed 45 days of active service, which would result in him losing his rookie status. Some observers found the timing unusual, as adding him to the 40-man roster might not have been necessary until the offseason.
With Clark now on the 40-man roster, he would be unable to play in the minor leagues if a potential lockout extends into the 2027 season, potentially impacting his development. However, Clark had been performing well, hitting five home runs and achieving a 1.086 OPS in July at Triple A, which may have prompted the Tigers‘ decision. The team had anticipated promoting him at some point during the current season. This move also comes as center fielder Matt Vierling might require time on the injured list due to a groin injury, and Javier Báez, while playing center, is also needed in the infield.
The Tigers appear to believe Clark can contribute to their success. If they were to trade Tarik Skubal for a package of young players, including a controllable starting pitcher, they might argue that they remain in a position to contend.
Pitching Decisions and Trade Deadline Activity
In other news from the Detroit Tigers, pitcher Casey Mize was scratched from his scheduled start on Friday. This decision was made for “cautionary reasons” ahead of the trade deadline, rather than due to an injury. This move suggests that the Tigers could be engaged in discussions to trade Mize, or are exploring potential deals for him in the coming days, aiming to prevent any injury before the deadline.
There is no certainty that Mize will be moved. Should he remain with Detroit past the deadline, he is expected to start on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Chicago White Sox are looking into potential trade additions for their pitching staff. They are also considering three of their top prospects—left-hander Hagen Smith (the club’s No. 2 prospect), right-hander Tanner McDougal (No. 4), and right-hander Mason Adams (No. 10)—as possible bullpen reinforcements. Smith and McDougal are currently working as relievers in Triple A.
The White Sox‘s strategy for their bullpen could involve trading for a traditional starter, moving Erick Fedde to the bullpen, and then strengthening the relief corps with their younger arms. The Los Angeles Angels‘ interim general manager, John Mozeliak, has stated that the team is “very open-minded” regarding potential trades involving players like Reid Detmers and José Soriano, both of whom have two additional years of control. Mozeliak emphasized that the team has time before the deadline and that these players are under control, reducing the pressure to make a rushed decision.
Infield Needs and Catching Depth
The Boston Red Sox are seeking additional infield help after Curtis Mead sustained a fractured left wrist in his first game with the club. Their interest includes Miami Marlins shortstop Otto Lopez and infielder Xavier Edwards. Red Sox assistant general manager Taylor Smith, who previously worked as the Rays’ director of predictive modeling, is familiar with both players. The Red Sox‘s preference appears to be a shortstop, and they are also interested in the Los Angeles Angels’ Zach Neto. Edwards started 108 games at shortstop for Miami in 2024-25, but was moved to second base in May 2025.
Detroit Tigers second baseman Gleyber Torres is another player who could attract the Red Sox‘s attention. They had shown interest in him during the 2024-25 offseason before he signed with the Tigers. However, since he no longer plays shortstop, he might be less of a fit for their specific needs. The St. Louis Cardinals, meanwhile, possess considerable catching depth. They are carrying three catchers: All-Star Ivan Herrera, Pedro Pagés, and rookie Jimmy Crooks. Their long-term catching prospects, Leo Bernal in Triple A and Rainiel Rodriguez in Double A, align with the team’s projected competitive window of late 2027 or early 2028.
While the Cardinals are open to trading Crooks, a 25-year-old left-handed hitter, they are reportedly less inclined to move Herrera despite concerns about his arm strength. Herrera has thrown out only one of 29 attempted base stealers this year, and the team reportedly prefers he catches no more than twice a week. However, the Cardinals value his batting ability highly. They also hold Pagés in high regard as a backup, noting his preparedness and strong relationship with pitchers. The Cardinals‘ president of baseball operations, Chaim Bloom, will listen to offers for all three players if the right prospect package is involved, but he is not under pressure to make a deal.
The Washington Nationals’ Luis García Jr. could be a suitable fit for the Arizona Diamondbacks, whose .599 OPS at first base is among the lowest in the major leagues, while García’s .860 OPS ranks higher.
Source: nytimes.com
Mason Reed
Sports reporter covering football, basketball and international competitions.