Ian Kinsler updated his no-trade clause to include Mets, Angels

With his name on the forefront of trade rumors this week, Detroit Tigers second baseman Ian Kinsler made more headlines when his updated no-trade clause was revealed. The Los Angeles Angels, New York Mets, and Milwaukee Brewers — three teams in dire need of help at second base — are all now included on Kinsler’s no-trade list, according to Joel Sherman of the New York Post.

Why this matters: Kinsler’s value was already down after he posted career worsts in several offensive categories last season. By updating his no-trade clause to include the teams most likely to deal for him this winter, Kinsler has established leverage over the negotiations. Players are free to ask for certain perks in exchange for waiving the clause, such as a contract extension or alterations to their current deal. Kinsler has previously requested a contract extension in exchange for waiving his no-trade rights, and one imagines the same would be true this winter.

Unfortunately, teams might not be quite as willing to commit to an aging second baseman for multiple seasons. There are a few other second basemen potentially on the market as well, including Pittsburgh’s Josh Harrison.

Does it change the Tigers’ plans?: Probably not. Kinsler is still a valuable asset and there are still multiple suitors for his services. Having to wiggle around his no-trade clause will certainly diminish his value some, but they will still net a prospect in a deal. Whether it comes this week or in late July remains to be seen.