Mariners: A Trade Target From Each A.L. Central Team

Detroit Tigers – LHP Tyler Alexander

Tyler Alexander is a solid starting pitcher who could fit the Mariners fifth starter role that is currently probably Justin Dunn. The Mariners need to bring someone in to fill that role, and Alexander could certainly fill it. He started 15 games last year for Detroit, but appeared in 41 games, so he has experience in both the rotation and the bullpen.

This suggests that Alexander could come in for the first half of the year, and be moved to the 6th starter/long reliever role if George Kirby, Matt Brash, or Brandon Williamson is ready to fill his spot. In his 106.1 innings, Alexander had a 3.81 ERA, 87 strikeouts, 28 walks, and a FIP of 4.39. He overall was fairly average, but he certainly was a fine fifth starter for the Tigers last year. He could be a solid option for the Mariners at the back end of their rotation.

This trade scenario nets the M’s Tyler Alexander for prospect Kaden Polcovich. Polcovich is technically a shortstop, but he profiles as a second base, third base, and shortstop utility type player. He is not a star prospect, but Alexander does would not net a top prospect. The Tigers would be buying in on someone who made it to AA last year and is going to be 23 next year. The Tigers could use Polcovich in a few years when they should be a better team than now.

The Mariners could certainly use the services of Tyler Alexander, even if he is not the most popular option for the team in 2022, but he would be able to fill some innings that the Mariners need. The next target comes from the Royals, and is be a former top prospect who could help the M’s infield in 2022 and beyond.