Former GM Says Tigers Will Be Aggressive in Pursuit of Elite Closer

The Tigers aren’t playing it safe at the deadline this year. Not with the American League in sight, and not with October feeling closer than it has in decades.

Former MLB GM Jim Bowden of The Athletic reports that Detroit is expected to aggressively pursue an impact closer ahead of the deadline. The team currently sits at 60-40 and, as Bowden points out, has a strong pool of targets available—including some of the best relievers in baseball.

Among the names Bowden highlighted are Orioles flamethrower Félix Bautista, Pittsburgh’s reliable David Bednar, Cleveland’s dynamic Emmanuel Clase, and Atlanta’s experienced Raisel Iglesias. Each of these arms could transform the back end of Detroit’s bullpen from solid to elite, something critical for teams with serious October aspirations.

But the Tigers’ plans don’t end there. According to Bowden, they’re also looking to add another bat to a lineup that’s deep, talented, but not quite complete. Whether it’s insurance for a young player or simply adding depth to an already strong roster, Detroit appears determined not to leave anything to chance.

This isn’t about just making the playoffs anymore. For the first time in years, the Tigers are shopping with a title run in mind—and they have the resources to do it. Prospects, young talent, and enough flexibility to outbid others in a seller-light market.

Bowden makes it clear: Expect the Tigers to be aggressive. Because for Detroit, after decades of waiting, the future is right now.