Tigers GM confirms club could deal Kinsler at winter meetings
It's no secret that Detroit Tigers second baseman Ian Kinsler's days in the Motor City appear to be numbered. The team is entering a rebuild after trading big names like Justin Verlander and Justin Upton last season.
Kinsler, 35, might be next in line, as there is a possibility the Tigers trade him during this week's winter meetings, general manager Al Avila told the Detroit Free Press' Anthony Fenech.
Related: Tigers' Avila says he's taken calls on Kinsler
The 12-year veteran has played the last four seasons for the Tigers after being acquired from the Texas Rangers in a trade for Prince Fielder. Since arriving in Detroit, Kinsler has hit .275/.328/.436 with 78 home runs and 300 RBIs. He is, however, coming off a rough season where he only hit .236 in 139 games.
A four-time All-Star, Kinsler has demonstrated an ability to stay on the field. He's never played fewer than 100 games in a season, and only once failed to play 120.
By making more than 600 plate appearances in 2017, his $11-million option vested for 2018. He will be a free agent at season's end.