Tigers trade rumors: Club not selling, interested in Mike Leake

Detroit might not be selling after all. Although the Tigers were thought to be open to selling, Detroit has informed teams that it would like to add pieces before the deadline and is in pursuit of both starting and relief pitching, according to ESPN's Jayson Stark.

At 48-51, 12.5 games out of first place in the American League Central, the Tigers are still confident they can put together a second half rally and compete for a playoff spot. General Manager Dave Dombrokwski has openly considered both buying and selling and it appears the organization's front office has yet to decide how active it wants to be leading up to Friday's non-waiver trade deadline. Since the All-Star break, the Tigers have only won four of 11 contests.

Crasnick adds one team known to have available pitchers believes the Tigers are "actively shopping," and according to USA Today's Bob Nightengale, Mike Leake is an ideal starting pitching target for the Tigers if they can remain competitive within the American League wild card picture. The Reds are expected to deal several major league pieces over the next few days, and while Aroldis Chapman, Jay Bruce, and Todd Frazier might draw more interest, Leake could also be available.

Leake, 27, has posted a 3.78 ERA and 3.94 FIP over 80.0 innings and 13 starts with the Reds in 2015. He is making $9.8 million this season but has proven to be a durable starting option who posted a 3.70 ERA and 3.88 FIP over 214.1 innings with Cincinnati in 2014.

If the Tigers do opt to sell, David Price and Yoenis Cespedes are likely among the major league pieces expected to draw interest. Joakim Soria might also be dealt, however since the Tigers have yet to determine whether they want to buy or sell, they might not be in a hurry to make any moves.