MLB trade rumors: Clint Frazier key chip in possible Yankees pursuit of Tigers’ Michael Fulmer?

by Felix Pantaleón

If Yankees general manager Brian Cashman wants to land Detroit Tigers starter Michael Fulmer before the July 31, 2018 (7/31/18) non-waiver deadline, outfielder Clint Frazier could be the key to a deal.

Could Clint Frazier be the key to landing a starting pitcher for the Yankees?

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As the countdown to the July 31 MLB trade deadline continues, the Yankees are still searching for an impact starting pitcher to land in a blockbuster.

One name that’s been connected to the Yankees: Tigers right-hander Michael Fulmer.

Jon Heyman of Fancred Sports mentioned the idea in his latest notes column and connected the dots to outfielder Clint Frazier as the bait that could interest Detroit.

It was reported that the Tigers are interested in Clint Frazier and Tyler Wade for Michael Fulmer. Frazier is a great trade chip for the Yankees since he’s a talented player with no room there …

Frazier recently came out of a Triple-A game with a concussion. An injury or long-term concern could halt any sort of traction the Yankees had in including Frazier in a deal for an arm this month.

2nd half predictions

When healthy, Frazier is the kind of player that most teams would like to have. For a team like the rebuilding Tigers, Frazier could be given a chance to play on an everyday basis. Two summers ago, the Yankees talked about his “legendary” bat speed. But with a stacked team competing for a World Series now, there hasn’t been room to break Frazier into the lineup on a consistent basis.

In 168 big league at bats, Frazier owns a .238/.295/.429 slash line.

Fulmer, 25, owns a 4.50 ERA in 112 innings this season for Detroit. Since debuting in 2016, Fulmer has pitched to a 3.72 ERA and 3.85 FIP. If the Yankees land the former Mets farm hand, he’ll come with team control through the 2022 season.

Joe Giglio may be reached at jgiglio@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @JoeGiglioSports. Find NJ.com on Facebook.