Detroit could add another former Yankees infielder as trade deadline approaches
The Tigers don't need a superstar. They need a solution.
Detroit's issues on the left side of the infield have been tough to ignore and according to ESPN's Bradford Doolittle, the answer might be a low-profile, high-utility veteran. In a recent deadline preview, Doolittle pegged Pirates infielder Isiah Kiner-Falefa as a sensible target to stabilize shortstop or third base.
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'A lower-profile move that would really help would be to target a shortstop like Isiah Kiner-Falefa,' Doolittle wrote. 'Whose bat actually improves what Detroit has gotten from the position just in terms of raw production.'
Pittsburgh Pirates shortstop Isiah Kiner-Falefa records an out at second base and throws to throws to first against the Kansas City Royals at PNC Park on Sept. 13, 2024.Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
It's a fair point.
Kiner-Falefa isn't lighting up leaderboards. The Pirates infielder entered July hitting .276 with a .668 OPS—but he's still outpacing the Tigers' current infield output.
More importantly, he brings versatility, experience, and strong defensive instincts. Now in his eighth season, the 30-year-old has logged innings at short, third, second, and even catcher. He's a former Gold Glove winner with postseason experience, and he rarely looks overwhelmed, no matter the assignment.
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He is also a former Yankees shortstop, which means he has playoff experience and doesn't get overwhelmed on the big stage. And the Tigers have had some success with former Yankees infielder with Gleyber Torres having a breakout year.
For a team like Detroit, that matters.
While the Tigers could chase a bigger name, the shortstop market isn't exactly overflowing. If more aggressive options fall through, Kiner-Falefa would still provide immediate, reliable help. He's a plug-and-play piece—someone who could stabilize the left side now and slide into a utility role later.
It's not the kind of move that grabs headlines, but it's a solid upgrade. For a Tigers team running away with AL Central and focusing on the playoffs it's exactly the kind of steadying move that makes a difference in October.
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Related: MLB Recognizes Tigers Tarik Skubal's Nasty Week
Related: Is This Power Hitter the Missing Piece for Detroit's Postseason Push?
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 1, 2025, where it first appeared.
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