Tigers & Twins Linked in Major Trade

After two straight playoff appearances, the Detroit Tigers were the clear favorites to claim the AL Central Division crown in 2026 coming into the season.

But now riding their second four-game losing streak of the young season, the Tigers have fallen to 4-9 and last place in the division. One spot they're already considering improving is in the outfield. With Parker Meadows still trying to find his footing the majors after three seasons (and currently out with a concussion), Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher Report has named the Tigers as a potential landing spot for Byron Buxton of the division-rival Minnesota Twins. Jeff Passan did the same this past offseason.

Buxton linked to Tigers in potential trade this season

There is no question that the two-time All-Star, coming off his best major league season, would be a huge upgrade in the Detroit outfield.

For the Minnesota Twins, this was supposed to be a reset year, not one in which they realistically intended to contend for a playoff spot. By beating the Tigers four straight this week, they are hovering just over the .500 mark. But again, nobody expects that to last.

Buxton was noted by Jeff Passan this past offseason to be willing to waive his no-trade clause, understanding that the Twins won't be challenging for any pennants anytime soon.

When Minnesota gets honest with themselves and decides to make a move to add for their future, the Twins' best trade chip is Buxton. Given good health, that is. Of course, that's never a sure thing for the man who has topped the 100-game mark just three times in a 12-year career.

But if the 32-year-old can stay on the field, Comerica Park would be an ideal landing spot.

Buxton flashed all of his tools last season, with 35 homers and 24 stolen bases, earning a Silver Slugger award. He even managed to stay on the field for 126 games.

The Tigers need the help in the outfield; Buxton should be on their target list. They got a close-up look at him over the past four games, in which the veteran outfielder rapped out three hits and scored six runs helping lead the way in Minny's sweep.