The Detroit Tigers probably have only one last chance to make a World Series run with Tarik Skubal, as he only has one year left on his contract, and an extension is pretty much out of the question. Now, the Tigers need to go out and get some upgrades to make this final dance meaningful.
Fansided’s Chris Landers believes the first upgrade they could go for is getting a second ace to pair with Skubal. He thinks the Tigers should go out and get Chicago Cubs All-Star ace Shota Imanaga.
“No matter how the Tarik Skubal situation resolves itself this winter, Detroit is going to need to add at least one other starting pitcher via free agency or trade. It seems unlikely that Scott Harris would be willing to play at or near the top of the pitching market, especially not with Skubal's extension talks hanging over his head. So Imanaga would make a good deal of sense as a lower-cost option, one who would seem to fit well in the spacious confines (and very strong outfield defense) of Comerica Park,” Landers wrote.
This past season, Imanaga posted a record of 9-8, an ERA of 3.73, 117 Ks, and a WHIP of 0.998 in 144 innings pitched. While this isn’t as good as his rookie season, playing in Comerica Park could help him bounce back.
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With that in mind, the Tigers would have a nasty 1-2 punch with Skubal and Imanaga. Plus, after Skubal potentially leaves, the Tigers will still have an ace to lead their rotation.
Hopefully, the Tigers will start pursuing Imanaga soon; otherwise, another contender that knows his worth will swoop in and try to steal him from under their noses.
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