Blue Jays: Six teams that could be trade partners at the deadline

Detroit Tigers

If the Blue Jays are looking to get bullpen help from one team, the Detroit Tigers may be their best trade partner to make the most impact on the relief corps.

The Tigers relievers own a 3.05 ERA on the season and rank third in all of the Major Leagues, with multiple pitchers boasting ERAs under the 3.00 mark. I believe there are two relievers that the team would not be willing to deal in closer Gregory Soto or former first-round pick Alex Lange, who still has five years of team control left. There are quite a few options still available should the Tigers be looking to trade relievers at the deadline.

Provided by Baseball-Reference.com: View Original Table

Former starter Michael Fulmer is having a great campaign, sporting a 1.97 ERA on the year with just seven earned runs allowed through 32.0 innings. Another right-hander to keep an eye on is Joe Jiménez, as the hard-throwing reliever is just on point with his command (1.9 BB/9) as well as striking out opposing batters at an 11.7 K/9. His baseball savant page is in all the right areas when looking at an impact arm.

The only left-hander in the group is Andrew Chafin, who might be one of the most sought-after southpaws at the deadline this season. Through 30 outings, Chafin limits the damage to hitters on both sides of the plate and is following up an impressive 2021 campaign with similar numbers this year in Detroit. Through 25.2 innings, Chafin owns a 10.5 K/9 and has allowed only seven earned runs and one home run on the season but did miss some time earlier this season with a groin strain.

Fulmer and Chafin are more likely to be dealt as both are eligible for free agency this offseason (Chafin has a $6.5 million player option) while Jiménez has one more year of team control. It wouldn’t be surprising if all three are available but if the Blue Jays can acquire Chafin and one of the right-handers, their bullpen would get a substantial boost to push for the playoffs this season.