The Detroit News

The Tigers think cutting down on strikeouts is one way Steven Moya could expedite a promotion to the major leagues.

ESPN’s Jim Bowden thinks a trade might be effective, as well.

Bowden, the former general manager of the Reds and Nationals, identified eight players “who could benefit from changes of scenery or are blocked by guys who play the same position.”

Moya, who at one time was ranked the No. 1 prospect in the Tigers’ farm system, is one of those eight players on Bowden’s list (pay site).

Bowden on Moya: “When the Tigers inked Justin Upton to a six-year, $132.75 million deal this offseason, they officially blocked one of their top position prospects. With J.D. Martinez in right field, Upton in left field, Miguel Cabrera at first base and Victor Martinez the designated hitter, Moya, 24, will not get a legitimate shot at the big leagues anytime soon. Therefore, Moya should be one of the Tigers' top trade baits between now and the trade deadline. … The Padres, Rays, Braves, Brewers and Phillies are all possible fits.”

Moya, a 6-7, 260-pound outfielder, was signed by the Tigers as a non-drafted free agent in 2008. Last season, playing mostly for Triple-A Toledo, he hit a combined .243 with 23 homers and 82 RBI, but he also had 175 strikeouts.

He is off to a good start with the Mud Hens again this year, hitting .324 with two homers and eight RBI through eight games.

Moya is ranked the Tigers’ No. 11 prospect by The Detroit News. He did not make the top 10 by Baseball America in its annual rankings released in January.

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