Tigers Urged to Explore Trading Max Anderson for Rotation Help
On November 3, a case was made for the Detroit Tigers to trade prospect Max Anderson this offseason if they can acquire a starting pitcher under team control beyond 2027.
Anderson’s strong 2026 season and minor-league Gold Glove at second base have increased his value, making him a potential trade piece as Detroit looks to strengthen its rotation. The 24-year-old hit .302 with a .386 on-base percentage and .477 slugging percentage for Triple-A Toledo, adding 15 home runs in 108 games.
He could also compete for a major-league role. Gleyber Torres’ free agency may open second base, and Anderson’s right-handed bat offers a reason to keep him. But Detroit has several young infielders competing for playing time, including Hao-Yu Lee, Kevin McGonigle and Colt Keith.
Trading Anderson would mean giving up an inexpensive player who could contribute in Detroit. The case for moving him rests on the possibility that his value could help secure a more difficult-to-find asset: a dependable starting pitcher. The Tigers have promising rotation options, but questions remain about health, workload and sustained performance.
Detroit exercised Drew Anderson’s $10 million option for 2027, retaining a pitcher who can handle multiple assignments. The team should still seek an established starter, with control beyond 2027 a key condition for any deal involving the prospect. A short-term rental or ordinary depth arm would not justify the cost, and Max Anderson could be included in a broader trade package.
If no suitable offer emerges, the Tigers can keep him and let him compete for a job. The recommendation is to explore a trade, not force one, and to use Anderson’s potential to pursue a lasting upgrade to the rotation.