The Detroit Tigers made a surprise move on the morning off the MLB trade deadline. They made a deal with the Seattle Mariners for LHP Jarrod Washburn. While pitching isn’t exactly the Tigers main problem this is a strong move, and the Tigers now have a pitching rotation built to win in the post season in 2009. Since Washburn is a free agent following the current season, this is a move by the Tigers to win now.
Washburn enters a rotation that already features Justin Verlander and Edwin Jackson. Since rookie pitcher Rick Porcello is likely done the Tigers did have a need for a third quality starter. Now the Tigers rotation on three of five days is among the best in MLB and dominant over their rivals in the American League Central. This very well could be the move that wins the Central for the Tigers, and this pitching staff is built to dominate a seven game playoff series.
What makes this a better move is the fact the Tigers gave up very little in return. When we consider that Washburn is a big fly ball out pitcher, and he will now play in the spacious Comerica Park the deal gets that much better. Washburn has a 2.64 ERA, with an 8-6 record, allowing just 109 hits, 33 walks, and 79 strikeouts.
The Tigers gave up back of the rotation pitcher Luke French, and Single A pitching prospect Mauricio Robles. If the Tigers can win a division title from this move then the cost becomes nill.
