The MLB is nearing the trade deadline this week and things have been firing up. There has been a lot of talk about big names being traded by the end of the week. Trevor Story, Kris Bryant, Joey Gallo and even Whit Merrifield. One name that has also been circulating is Johnathan Schoop, the first basemen for the Detroit Tigers.

Schoop’s Impact

Schoop is 29 years old and the Tigers should do what they can to move him and get the most in return. He is a proven hitter this year posting a .288 batting average with 17 homeruns and 60 RBIs. Schoop is also valuable in the field proving that he can play multiple positions. He can play first base and second, considering that was his primary position since coming over from Minnesota in 2019.

Schoop has the versatility on defense and has shown he can get it done offensively and has shown a lot of pop in his bat. The question at hand is what is the price for a veteran type player who is due for a contract extension after this season.

I would say Schoop’s type of production attracts teams that are either contending for the playoffs or are World Series favorites. I can see the Dodgers, Red Sox or even the Rays reach out to the Tigers for a trade. What those teams are willing to give up, I am not sure. I can say if Al Avila does pick up the phone I want the trade to be worth it and not just another useless player dump.

Nothing is Good

Schoop is a veteran leader on this team and that is what this team needs. Avila could simply do nothing this week and I think the fans would be okay with it. This team is not in any position to make a run for the playoffs. The Tigers are young and talented and there is no need to shake up the roster right now. Doing nothing at the deadline shows that Avila and company are committed to the long term. Meaning, who’s on this roster is here to stay.

The young talent is proving themselves. They have guys that need to develop, once they do that this roster could be very good. Then there are guys down in Toledo that will get the call up to prove themselves. Isaac Paredes needs to play more. Kody Clemens will soon get the call up and prove that he can play.

All in all, this team is trending in the right direction. It is whether or not the organization can get them there.