Despite their slump after the All-Star break and leading up to the trade deadline, the Detroit Tigers have a firm hold on first place in the American League Central, and they could afford to shed some outfield depth.
The Tigers on July 23 designated outfielder Brewer Hicklen for assignment to give his roster spot to pitching prospect Troy Melton. Before Hicklen cleared waivers, Detroit traded him to the Philadelphia Phillies for cash considerations, first reported by MLB insider Bob Nightengale. The Phillies optioned him to Triple-A Lehigh Valley in the wake of the trade.