Phillies rumor: Tigers pitcher Matthew Boyd unlikely to be traded
As the trade deadline approaches, it appears unlikely that the Phillies or any other team will get Tigers pitcher Matthew Boyd.
The Phillies made two moves in recent weeks to upgrade the starting rotation to some extent, signing Drew Smyly and trading for Jason Vargas. Neither move was earth-shattering but needed to shore up an abhorrently lousy rotation. As we get to closer to the trade deadline, an actual earth-shattering move seems less and less likely.
One of the biggest potential targets for Philadelphia and other teams at this year’s trade deadline appears to be off the market. Jon Heyman of MLB Network reported that it now is “very likely” starter Matthew Boyd remains in Detroit. He cites the high price for Boyd, noting that the Tigers were seeking Yankees shortstop Gleyber Torres.
Boyd was a notable target for Philadelphia as they were linked to him on numerous occasions by multiple reporters. General manager Matt Klentak joined the team in Detroit when Boyd pitched against Philadelphia last week, contributing to the club’s rumored interest.
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However, if the idea that Detroit was looking for someone of Torres’s caliber, it’s no surprise Philadelphia and other teams aren’t buying. The only Phillies with similar value to Torres are Rhys Hoskins, Aaron Nola, and maybe Scott Kingery. There’s zero chance any of those players get traded at all, let alone for Boyd.
Boyd’s value comes from his three years of team control and markedly improved numbers this season. His 6.14 strikeout-to-walk ratio is fifth-best among qualified pitchers this year, a massive jump from his 3.12 strikeout-to-walk ratio last season. Boyd’s 3.94 ERA and 3.47 fielding-independent pitching both are strong as well.
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Boyd seemed like a good fit for the team, but the front office made it clear they would pursue more marginal moves to upgrade the roster. With less than a day before the trade deadline, that appears to be the case with each passing hour.