REPORT: Tigers Want an Established Young MLB Star in Matt Boyd Trade
By Michael Luciano
As the trade deadline inches closer and the Detroit Tigers continue their season-long run of ineptitude, what few tangible assets they have at the major-league level are expected to be shipped elsewhere, chief among them starting pitcher Matthew Boyd.
While Boyd has been having a solid season and could help a contender, he'll probably stay as a Tiger thanks to Detroit's ridiculous asking price. In addition to prospects, the Tigers want a young star in any potential Boyd deal.
Hear that for star lefty Matthew Boyd the Tigers at least in some cases are asking teams for an established young MLB star — not just prospects. Don’t think they get it but know: It’s a sellers market, Boyd has big K/BB rate (6.67, tops in AL) and 3 more years before free agency
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) July 20, 2019
Boyd's 6.67 strikeout/walk rate, which is the best in the Junior Circuit, and his 160 strikeouts in 120 innings will garner plenty of attention on the trade market, but is any team really willing to fork over several top prospects AND a star for a guy that is prone to giving up home runs, has average stuff, and is sporting a 4.13 ERA?
The Yankees were once considered buyers in a potential Boyd trade, but the Tigers allegedly wanted Gleyber Torres in return. Either Tigers GM Al Avila has totally lost the plot and thinks Boyd is Randy Johnson or he's just trolling. Those are the only possible explanations.
Lol RT @Joveezyy: Detroit told Cashman they’ll trade Matt Boyd for Gleyber Torres.....
— kenny (@kenny848419) July 20, 2019
pic.twitter.com/4olDboyA12
Unless someone sends several top prospects and a budding star to Detroit for a slightly above-average starter, Boyd will likely remain a Tiger. Or perhaps the Tigers are bluffing and just want to get the most for Boyd. Either way, we'll find out over the next 10 days.