The Astros' veteran starter was traded to the Tigers after an impressive second half

The Detroit Tigers were sellers at the 2024 trade deadline, getting rid of some key players like Jack Flaherty. However, beyond all expectations, they had a breakthrough in the second half and secured a wild card spot.

The 86-76 Tigers ultimately fell short in the ALDS, but the future is bright and they should be back in contention next season.

To stay in contention, they will likely need another starter, which includes Tarik Skubal, the projected American League Cy Young Award winner. Jim Bowden of The Athletic listed Detroit as a fit for left guard Yusei Kikuchi.

“Yusei Kikuchi was 4-9 with a 4.75 ERA over 22 starts with the Blue Jays, who dealt him to Houston at the trade deadline,” Bowden wrote. “The Astros quickly changed their pitch order and usage, and the results were astounding. He went 5-1 with a 2.70 ERA and 3.07 FIP over 10 starts (60 innings).

Kikuchi certainly had a strong second half of the season after struggling with the Blue Jays. He quickly developed into a middle and upper rotation arm for Houston and should receive a solid contract this coming offseason.

Bowden predicts the veteran left-hander will receive a three-year, $42 million contract as a free agent. Detroit should be able to do that.

The Tigers need another upper rotation arm alongside Skubal, and Kikuchi could be a perfect fit as they look to build on their second-half success and return to the postseason in 2025.

We'll see if Detroit ends up being a candidate for the veteran left-hander.

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