Probably the most difficult thing for fans to figure out is why Edwin Jackson would be on the trading block. Does seem like he would be a big part of the Tigers' future anchoring the rotation with Justin Verlander and Rick Porcello.
I don't blame them.
The Tigers are paying a lot of money to unproductive veteran players carrying loads of money on contracts. So they can't re-sign Placido Polanco, may not re-sign Fernando Rodney and are looking to trade Edwin Jackson?
Those were three of their better players.
I've been around baseball long enough to understand what is happening here. The Tigers hope to contend next season because their division isn't that good. They do hope to get some value from Jackson, who scouts like because of his arm strength, but who may not be any more productive or less productive in the future than he has been the last two seasons. Jackson hasn't exactly been clutchwith both Tampa Bay and Detroit. Yet, his trade value is still high. Is Jackson worth signing long-term? Because he will soon be eligible for free agency? This is time to do it.
I just don't see where dumping Jackson will make the Tigers a better team, especially if it is just for prospects.