MLB trade rumors: Brewers interested in Tigers’ Ian Kinsler

The Brewers are “digging into the possibility” of trading for Tigers second baseman Ian Kinsler, according to ESPN’s Buster Olney.

Kinsler, 35, is one of a few remaining trade candidates for the Tigers, along with Justin Wilson, Justin Verlander and Alex Avila. Though there hasn’t been much talk about him to this point, he likely could be had for the right offer.

The Brewers, who entered play Saturday with a one-game lead in the NL Central, have been aggressive on the trade market, being linked to starters like Verlander and Sonny Gray in recent days. Their interest in adding a second baseman is a new development, and, according to FOX’s Ken Rosenthal, hinges on the health of Eric Sogard, who is returning from the disabled list tonight.

Milwaukee has seen a lack of production from Jonathan Villar at the position (.223/.287/.350) but Sogard has been surprisingly good offensively, hitting .331/.438/.485 in 43 games. He has been dealing with an ankle injury but could take over as the starter at the position when healthy.

Kinsler won’t come cheap, as he is owed about $3.7 million for the rest of this season before a $12 million option or $5 million buyout kicks in for next year. Hitting just .244/.324/.397 this year, he’ll cost a minimum investment of about $8.7 million for two months.