According to FOXSports.com's Jon Paul Morosi, the Detroit Tigers are looking for middle infield depth as baseball nears its July 31 non-waiver trade deadline. One of the players Detroit has shown interest in is Arizona Diamondbacks shortstop Stephen Drew.
Morosi points out that Drew wouldn't just be a short-term fix for the Tigers at shortstop, either:
Drew would be an offensive upgrade for the Tigers, who have had the second-worst shortstop production in the American League (.586 OPS). He would also be a long-term fit. Detroit doesn't have a set No. 2 hitter or everyday shortstop for the 2011 season; Drew, who won't be a free agent until 2012, could fill both roles.
Drew, 27, is batting .268/.334/.407 in 310 plate appearances this year.
The Tigers wouldn't just be looking to upgrade at shortstop by making a move. The team also intends to insure themselves in case second baseman Carlos Guillen gets injured again. Guillen already missed significant time this season due to a strained hamstring, and his injury history in recent seasons can't give the Tigers any confidence that he'll stay healthy through October. Acquiring someone like Drew would give Detroit some valuable infield depth as the playoff race intensifies.
Other infielders Morosi says might be available (though the Tigers have yet to inquire about them) are Ryan Theriot and Mike Fontenot of the Cubs, and Willie Bloomquist of the Royals.