MLB Rumors: Detroit Tigers Must Add Top-End Pitcher to Bolster Rotation

When the Detroit Tigers signed Prince Fielder to a mega contract this offseason, the message to the rest of Major League Baseball was clear:

We're going all in to win a championship this year, and we're gunning to win a few over the next several years. So, look out.

But even with the addition of Fielder, and superstars like Justin Verlander and Miguel Cabrera already on board, it may not be enough. Early this season, it appears the Tigers need to add another top-of-the-rotation arm as well.

And they might do just that. From Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports:

"

Rival executives already anticipate that the Tigers will make a strong push for starting pitching at the July 31 non-waiver deadline, if not before.

Right-hander Doug Fister eventually will return from a left ribcage injury, but right-handers Rick Porcello and Max Scherzer and lefty Adam Wilk have combined for a 7.38 ERA in 12 starts.

"

Who might they target?

Well, ESPN's Jason A. Churchill (Insider) thinks Jake Peavy, Wandy Rodriguez, Bartolo Colon, Chad Billingsley, Matt Garza and even Philadelphia Phillies ace Cole Hamels could be potential targets.

I wouldn't include Hamels on that list myself. Despite having not signed a contract extension with the Phillies yet, I don't see him leaving Philadelphia.

But one way or another, if the Tigers rotation doesn't improve, an upgrade will be necessary. The team is currently 23rd in the MLB in team ERA (4.27), 26th in WHIP (1.45) and 25th in opponent's batting average (.272).

Those marks simply won't cut it.

We know this team will hit, and that Verlander gives it a legitimate ace. Hell, we know the back end of the bullpen with Joaquin Benoit and Jose Valverde will settle down and shut the door at the end of ballgames.

What we don't know is whether this team has enough starting pitching for any of the above to matter.

If the Tigers truly are all in this year, it's looking more and more likely that they'll have to bolster the rotation with a legitimate stud.

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