The Detroit Tigers acquired right-handed starter Chris Paddack and right-handed reliever Randy Dobnak from the Minnesota Twins in exchange for catching prospect Enrique Jimenez, per ESPN’s Jeff Passan.
It’s a depth move that addresses two areas where Detroit needs help. Paddack gives them innings, while Dobnak adds bullpen flexibility.
Paddack, 29, isn’t lighting up the stat sheet this season, but he’s been consistent about taking the ball every fifth day. The big righty is 3-9 with a 4.95 ERA and 1.28 WHIP in 21 starts during his fourth year with Minnesota.
Those numbers aren’t pretty, but Paddack can eat innings for a Tigers rotation that’s needed reinforcement. He’s the kind of veteran arm that can stabilize things down the stretch.
Dobnak, 30, has barely pitched for the Twins this season – just one appearance back on March 30 against St. Louis. He allowed one run over 5.1 innings in that relief outing, showing the kind of versatility that makes him useful.
The rest of Dobnak’s year has been spent in Triple-A, where he’s struggled with a 7.12 ERA and 1.71 WHIP across 17 appearances. But Detroit’s betting on his ability to pitch multiple innings out of the pen.
Going the other way, Jimenez is Detroit’s No. 14 prospect according to most rankings. The 19-year-old catcher/first baseman has put together solid numbers in rookie ball, slashing .250/.339/.440 with six homers and 32 RBI in 48 games.
What makes this interesting is the timing. Paddock’s on an expiring contract, so Minnesota’s basically selling him for whatever they can get. The Twins also clear Dobnak off their 40-man roster while picking up a young catching prospect.
From Detroit’s perspective, it’s about adding depth where you can never have enough. Starting pitching and bullpen arms are always at a premium, especially when you’re trying to stay competitive.
Both teams figure to be active over the next few days. This feels like an appetizer rather than the main course for either front office.
