Tigers reportedly showing interest in pair of Twins relievers

The Detroit Tigers currently own the best record in Major League Baseball at the All-Star break. At 59-38, they have an 11 1/2 game lead in the American League Central.

Last summer, they were sellers at the trade deadline and dealt away any player on an expiring contract. They followed that up with an unprecedented second half run which saw them claim the third Wild Card spot.

This summer figures to be different, as the Tigers are in a great position to add to their roster rather than subtract from it. They appear to be in the market for bullpen help.

Bob Nightengale notes that Detroit has interest in Minnesota Twins right-handers Jhoan Duran and Griffin Jax.

"The Philadelphia Phillies have been extensively scouting Minnesota Twins relievers Jhoan Duran and Griffin Jax of the Minnesota Twins, hoping to acquire at least one of them," Nightengale reported.

The Twins also are drawing strong interest from the Detroit Tigers, Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers and Cincinnati Reds.

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Duran is 5-4 with a 1.66 ERA and 2.2 WAR in 44 appearances with the Twins. He also has recorded 15 saves on the year.

Jax is 1-4 with a 3.92 ERA in 44 appearances of his own.

The Twins are under .500 and could be sellers at the trade deadline. Trades within the same division are rare, but Detroit could use some bullpen help.

Adding these two relievers could help them separate themselves from the rest of the American League and give them an even better chance to take home their first World Series title since 1984.

The Tigers made it all the way to the ALDS last season after selling at the deadline. If they buy, they'll be focused on making a push for a title this year.

We'll see what the Tigers are able to accomplish at the deadline.

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