The Tigers traded Tarik Skubal to Dodgers. They still may make the playoffs

The Detroit Tigers unsurprisingly traded starting pitcher Tarik Skubal before the MLB trade deadline. With the Tigers trading Skubal to the Los Angeles Dodgers as well as Casey Mize being moved to the San Diego Padres, it seemed as if the ball club was preparing to set their sights on 2027 and beyond. However, Detroit has suddenly won five of its past six games and the team is only one game back of an American League Wild Card spot and 3.5 games back in the American League Central standings.

Is the American League a joke this year? Yes. There are only a few serious teams. The Texas Rangers, who hold the third AL Wild Card spot at the moment are one game under .500 at 57-58.

Nevertheless, the Tigers are in the postseason conversation. They could shock the MLB world by reaching the postseason despite trading the best pitcher in baseball.

How are they finding ways to win? Well, Framber Valdez turned in a stellar start in an 11-0 win over the Seattle Mariners on Thursday. The offense performed well (clearly) in the 11-0 victory as well, as both Kevin McGonigle and Dillon Dingler hit home runs.

Valdez has endured a difficult season but he is an ace when he is on top of his game. Dingler is an All-Star who has been one of the best catchers in the sport this season. McGonigle is also an All-Star and a Rookie of the Year candidate. Riley Greene is another All-Star who has played well.

This Tigers ball club features talent. There is a reason many believed they would be a serious contender entering the season. While injuries and overall underperformance led to a disappointing first half of the season, the Tigers are beginning to display their potential despite now being without Skubal and Mize.

Given the joke that the American League has become this year, the Tigers are a serious contender in the league. The idea of Detroit reaching the postseason is realistic.

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