The Detroit Tigers are aiming to make a serious postseason run this October after posting the best record in Major League Baseball through June. At 49-30, they hold a comfortable eight-game lead in the American League Central.
With the MLB trade deadline just over five weeks away, Detroit is expected to be active buyers as they gear up for a potential World Series run.
After falling short in the ALDS last year, the Tigers have reloaded with the return of Jack Flaherty, improved production from supporting hitters, and a Cy Young contender in Tarik Skubal. Still, the team appears to be one or two key additions away from being complete.
Could the Cardinals Be Sellers?
In this proposed blockbuster trade, the St. Louis Cardinals would send left-hander Steven Matz to the Detroit Tigers.
MLB.com’s Thomas Harrigan recently outlined why the Cardinals could become sellers at the deadline and highlighted Matz as a valuable trade asset:
“Following an offseason with minimal activity — including unproductive Nolan Arenado trade talks and the signing of Phil Maton as their only major addition — this was seen as a transitional year for St. Louis. While the Cardinals have outperformed expectations to a degree, their inconsistent play has only raised more questions about the team’s direction.”
Matz, in the final year of a four-year, $44 million contract, could be an ideal rental for the Tigers, especially after the team lost Jackson Jobe to Tommy John surgery and now needs extra rotation depth.
“All things considered, Matz may be the Cardinals’ most appealing trade chip. Though he was originally brought in as a starter, injuries limited his performance, resulting in a 4.47 ERA across 197 1/3 innings over the first three seasons.
In 2025, however, he has reinvented himself as an effective multi-inning reliever, recording a 2.66 ERA, a 1.89 FIP, 38 strikeouts, and just four walks in 40 2/3 innings. His resurgence could make him a desirable target for teams seeking bullpen depth, though St. Louis may need to absorb part of his salary to secure a meaningful return.”
Matz Could Return to Being a Starter
As Harrigan pointed out, Steven Matz has primarily pitched out of the bullpen this season, making just two starts. While he’s performed well in that role, his background as a starter gives the Detroit Tigers some flexibility — they could use him as a long reliever or even as an opener.
Given how thin the Tigers’ rotation currently is, Matz would be a valuable, versatile addition who could help reduce strain on the bullpen in individual games.
Since Matz would likely be a rental, the Tigers wouldn’t need to give up significant prospect capital to land him. If Detroit wants to maintain its position atop the American League, expect them to make a few strategic moves in July — and St. Louis could be a logical trade partner for adding a reliable arm.
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