Detroit Tigers Dissector: Deadline Deals and Does Still Magglio Fit?

Welcome to Rudy Dominick & Johnny Lawrence's Week 13 installment of Detroit Tigers information and analysis. 

Each Thursday, we will delve into all things Tigers. Read and digest, or skim and spit out our insightful banter.

Keep An Eye On

Robbie Weinhardt, Relief Pitcher—Erie Sea Wolves (AA)

(Season @ Single-A Lakeland)

1-0, 31.2 IP, 24 H, 30 K, 0.85 ERA.

Drive-By Argument:  What is Detroit's No. 1 Priority Come Trading Deadline?

LAWRENCE:  At the top of the Tigers' list should be a speedy outfielder to replace soon-to-be-chopped Magglio Ordonez.

Outside of Josh Anderson, who manager Jim Leyland refuses to play, there is no true speed merchant pedaling around the bases for the Tigers.  Curtis Granderson has excellent wheels, but they are underutilized because of his equally impressive power.

Another burner would give Detroit a Tampa Rays-type feel to the offense—a bunting threat who could manufacture runs and steal bases.  With a more diversified offense, the Tigers would have the capability of stealing or slugging their way home.

Unlike with power, speed never goes into a slump and Detroit could handcuff the opposing defense with a longer list of threats.

DOMINICK:  Simply put, pitching wins championships.

With Detroit's rotation instability, the fourth and fifth starting spots need to be addressed immediately.  Detroit can not rely on Galarraga, Robertson, and Willis to provide any stability for the second half.  A trade needs to be made.

The lack of prospects and high salaries of underproducing veterans Ordonez and Carlos Guillen throw a wrench into the gears.

One way around this scenario is to trade Polanco and promote Scott Sizemore or give Ramon Santiago a chance to play everyday.  Detroit may be able to reel in a quality pitcher for the veteran .303 hitter. 

Since this isn't the National League, I do not view the speed issue as a pressing matter.

Detroit could use another power bat to protect Miguel Cabrera, but this need is not as desperate as solidifying the staff.  Besides, the return of Marcus Thames has already provided dividends.  Inserting Adam Dunn would not be much of an upgrade; it seems he's feast or famine in the home run/strikeout department.

A Right Field Dilemma

Discounting the San Diego Padres, Detroit right fielders have been the least productive in all of baseball.

Through 78 Games:  .223 BA, 66-for-296, 7 HR, 29 RBI, .296 OBP, .328 SLG.

In each of the above categories, Tiger players rank anywhere from 28th to last among the 30 Major League teams.  Not listed in the grouping, they rank last in doubles (8) and second-to-last in total bases (97).

How much longer can Detroit continue to trot out Ordonez?  The primary right fielder and fan favorite's numbers have dropped to career lows on all fronts.  Hitting at a .260 clip with three measly homers, the lack of production from the position is costing the team wins.

Sitting atop the AL Central, Detroit can ill afford to give games away.

You're currently logged into Facebook

Do you want to share your Bleacher Report activity on Facebook?