It's not the what. It's the when.
Thirty years ago, the trade deadline was June 15. Teams used it for last-chance shuffling before settling in to battle for the playoffs.
But since 1985, when the trade deadline was moved six weeks later, to July 31, the whole concept has changed. Now contending teams use it to turbo charge their chances, and the rest throw their expensive sandbags overboard and float off into the dreams of next season.
Which is what the Tigers did this past week.
Before we evaluate the six young prospects (five pitchers, one infielder) the Tigers acquired for their best pitcher, their most-talented all-around outfielder and their top closer (which in the Tigers' bullpen is like saying the most gourmet dish at Red Lobster), we must acknowledge the symbolism of the trades.