The Detroit Tigers should explore a trade for Colorado Rockies left-hander Brennan Bernardino, with a secondary minor league pitching prospect as the proposed starting point.

That would be a modest offer for a specific job: helping A.J. Hinch protect leads before his preferred late-inning relievers entered the game.

The Tigers’ need to rebuild their bullpen requires several improvements. Adding an established closer would address one important assignment. Finding another effective middle reliever could make the entire group easier to manage.

Detroit could find that supporting piece in Bernardino, who finished 2026 with a 2.81 ERA across 74 appearances.

His production gave the Tigers a reason to inquire. The acquisition cost would determine whether the idea deserves to move beyond that conversation.

Bernardino Could Make Hinch’s Bullpen Decisions Easier

Colorado Rockies pitcher Brennan Bernardino.…