​The Major League Baseball trade deadline is quickly approaching, and one former Auburn Tiger is the center of many trade discussions. Casey Mize has flourished into a key piece of the Detroit Tigers’ starting pitching rotation ever since he was selected No. 1 overall in the 2018 MLB Draft. Despite posting quality numbers this season in the Motor City, his team is sitting in fourth place in the American League Central standings and is deemed a “seller” ahead of the trade deadline. This means Mize has the chance to join a World Series-contending roster through a trade. Which teams are interested in Mize’s services? USA TODAY’s Casey L. Moore has listed five teams that appear to be great fits for Mize, including the local Atlanta Braves. The Braves need a boost in their starting pitcher rotation, and the Springville, Alabama native could provide the assistance the team needs as it looks to lock in a National League East championship. “The Braves remain in control of the NL East, but their starting pitching depth behind ace Chris Sale is shaky. With Spencer Schwellenbach recovering from elbow surgery and Spencer Strider still sidelined, Mize would provide some stability beyond Bryce Elder. And team president Alex Anthopoulos has never been shy to make a big deal,” writes Casey L. MooreNot only would the move from Detroit to Atlanta benefit Mize, but it would be a refreshing sight for Auburn fans. Since most Auburn fans also consider themselves Braves fans, the Braves’ potential trade for Mize would give them a chance to see a former Tiger lead the “hometown team” to the MLB Postseason. Auburn fans would also get the chance to see Mize enjoy the same success in Atlanta that fellow Auburn alums Tim Hudson and Josh Donaldson have in recent memory. Mize currently boasts a 4-6 record with an impressive 2.70 ERA in 16 starts with Detroit this season. He has also struck out 85 batters and allowed just five home runs. Mize’s Detroit teammate, Tarik Skubal, was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers late Saturday night, and Mize is expected to be the next hot name in the trade market from the Tigers with the trade deadline approaching. The MLB trade deadline is scheduled for Monday, Aug. 3, at 5 p.m. CT. This article originally appeared on Auburn Wire: Former Auburn ace linked to NL East leader ahead of MLB trade deadline