Verlander Still a Tiger
There were rumors that Justin Verlander might be traded by the Tigers, the only team he's ever played for. That didn't happen.
Verlander was still in a Tiger uniform when the 4pm trade deadline came and went. A lot of contending major league teams could have used a starting pitcher of Verlander's caliber, but his salary might have scared some off. Verlander has pitched better than his 6-7 record indicates. The Dodgers and Yankees probably could see that, but elected to trade for the Rangers' Yu Darvish and the A's Sonny Gray instead.
So, when the dust cleared, the Tigers dealt three players -- outfielder J.D. Martinez, catcher Alex Avila and reliever Justin Wilson. They got back five minor-league infielders. Verlander, Ian Kinsler, Jose Iglesias, and Justin Upton are still Tigers.
Meanwhile, manager Brad Ausmus has named his new closer. Shane Greene will take the ball in the 9th inning of close games. The Tigers called up hard-throwing right- hander Joe Jimenez and catcher-first baseman John Hicks.
The team is 10 games out of first place, going into Monday night's game at Yankee Stadium.