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Report: Tigers, Phillies have discussed J.D. Martinez trade

Reuters

Two teams heading in very different directions the last few seasons seem to be switching mentalities, as the Detroit Tigers could be ready to sell to a Philadelphia Phillies team looking to improve heading into 2017.

The Tigers and Phillies have spoken about a trade involving outfielder J.D. Martinez, though talks aren't progressing, sources told Jon Morosi of FOX Sports.

The Phillies haven't had a winning season since 2011, but are expected to have significant money to spend on big name free agents in the next few years. The team is looking for a short-term outfield bat, Morosi notes, that could play alongside newly acquired veteran outfielder Howie Kendrick.

The Tigers have made it clear no player is untouchable as the team looks to be flirting with the idea of a full rebuild. Other than Martinez, who is entering the final year of a three-year, $21.5-million deal, the Tigers are open to trades and have received calls regarding Justin Verlander, Ian Kinsler, and Miguel Cabrera.

Martinez has been one of the Tigers' many productive players over the last three seasons, posting 11.1 WAR while hitting .299/.357/.540 with 83 home runs and 246 RBIs since 2014.

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