Tigers promote top prospect Max Clark as trade deadline approaches
Detroit added outfielder Max Clark to its 40-man roster, while teams such as Boston, St. Louis and Chicago weigh roster moves ahead of the MLB trade deadline.
Detroit promoted highly regarded outfielder Max Clark to the major-league roster, a move that coincides with growing speculation that the Tigers may trade pitcher Tarik Skubal before the August 14 deadline. Clark, the No. 3 overall pick in the 2023 draft, had been batting .276 with a .802 OPS and 21 steals in 23 attempts at Triple-A, and his addition to the 40-man roster means he will lose rookie status if he remains on the club for more than 45 days.
The promotion also addresses a potential need in the outfield, as center-fielder Matt Vierling is dealing with a groin injury and the team is shifting Javier Báez between the outfield and infield. Analysts suggest the Tigers could argue they remain competitive if they acquire a controllable starter in a Skubal trade, though the likelihood of such a deal is uncertain.
In Boston, the Red Sox are seeking additional infield depth after shortstop Curtis Mead suffered a wrist fracture. They are reportedly interested in Marlins shortstop Otto Lopez, infielder Xavier Edwards and Angels shortstop Zach Neto, as well as Detroit second-baseman Gleyber Torres, who could fit a Venezuelan-heavy lineup.
St. Louis is evaluating its catching surplus while considering trade options for pitcher Dustin May and reliever Ryne Stanek. The Cardinals’ roster includes All-Star catcher Ivan Herrera, whose defensive limitations have prompted the team to view him as a part-time option, and rookie left-handed catcher Jimmy Crooks, who may be the most movable piece.
Chicago’s White Sox are weighing whether to add a starter or bolster the bullpen, with top prospects Hagen Smith, Tanner McDougal and Mason Adams already working as relievers in Triple-A and potentially eligible for a major-league role.
Los Angeles Angels interim GM John Mozeliak said the club remains “open-minded” about possible trades involving pitchers Reid Detmers or José Soriano, while also noting that recent acquisitions such as infielder Angel Arredondo are being evaluated for their defensive versatility.
Arizona is reportedly interested in Washington’s Luis García Jr., whose .860 OPS at the plate would improve the Diamondbacks’ struggling first-base production, despite a high swing-and-miss rate.
The Pittsburgh Pirates, who drafted right-hander Seth Hernandez with the sixth overall pick in 2025, are not expected to move him despite interest from other clubs. Meanwhile, New York and San Diego continue to explore potential pitcher exchanges as the deadline nears.