Tigers reportedly keeping Justin Verlander, open to eventual deal
The Detroit Tigers are hanging on to starting pitcher Justin Verlander, at least for now.
Anthony Fenech of the Detroit Free Press reported Monday that the Tigers will not move Verlander ahead of the 4 p.m. trade deadline. They may, however, still look to deal him eventually.
On Justin Verlander: Like @jonmorosi said, Tigers aren't trading him today. They remain open to the idea in the future, though.
— anthony fenech (@anthonyfenech) July 31, 2017
This makes sense, and does not come as much of a surprise. Verlander has had a down year with a 4.29 ERA, and his contract is a hindrance to potential deals. If he has a strong second half, it could boost his trade value and make it easier to move him in the winter.