The trade deadline is approaching fast.
We are now approaching the one-week mark, which means that soon, activity will heat up and deals will be made.
Pitching is always at a premium at trade deadlines, but there are several potential rental arms on the market.
One such name that is floating around is Detroit Tigers right-hander Michael Lorenzen.
The veteran righty was an American League All-Star this season.
On Twitter, MLB Network insider Jon Morosi pointed out that Lorenzen’s trade value appears to be peaking at just the right time, and he noted that the Tampa Bay Rays and Houston Astros are among the teams considering him.
Michael Lorenzen’s trade value is peaking at the exact right time.
The Astros and Rays are among the teams considering him at the deadline.
Including today, Lorenzen has thrown 18-2/3 scoreless innings over his last 3 starts for the Tigers. @MLBNetwork @MLB
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 20, 2023
On Thursday, Lorenzen gave the Tigers seven scoreless innings and allowed just three hits, walking one batter and striking out three against the Kansas City Royals.
In doing so, Lorenzen lowered his ERA to 3.49 on the season.
But as the deadline approaches, it appears that his value is going up.
The Rays are currently without a few of their starters.
Jeffrey Springs is out for the season, and Drew Rasmussen is also currently on the injured list.
Shane McClanahan, while active, has dealt with some injury concerns recently.
This could make Lorenzen a prime target for the Rays.
The defending World Series champion Astros are without three of their regular starters, as Luis Garcia, Lance McCullers Jr., and Jose Urquidy are all out for the remainder of the season.
Houston does have Framber Valdez and Cristian Javier at the top of their rotation, but the bottom three spots are in question.
Lorenzen can start and come out of the bullpen, which makes him a valuable asset.
NEXT: MLB Insider Notes A Tigers Pitcher To Watch At Trade Deadline
