The Tigers’ pursuit of Alex Bregman has hit a snag. Negotiations between Detroit and the former Astros star are at a standstill, according to Detroit Free Press reporter Evan Petzold.
It’s an interesting development for a Tigers team that’s looking to build on last season’s surprising playoff run. Detroit grabbed the third AL Wild Card spot and pushed Cleveland to five games in the ALDS, but they’ve been quiet this winter outside of adding Gleyber Torres and Alex Cobb.
Bregman would be a perfect fit for what the Tigers need. The 31-year-old third baseman brings both the glove and right-handed power bat that Detroit’s lineup is missing. He’s coming off a solid 2023 where he hit .260 with 26 homers and 75 RBI, good for a 4.1 WAR.
The two-time All-Star’s track record speaks for itself. He’s posted at least 4.0 WAR in six of the last eight seasons, earned both Gold Glove and Silver Slugger honors, and helped lead Houston to two World Series titles.
There’s also the A.J. Hinch connection. Detroit’s manager knows exactly what Bregman brings to a clubhouse from thier time together in Houston. That veteran presence could be invaluable for a young Tigers team looking to take the next step.
The Tigers seem like the most logical landing spot among teams reportedly in the mix. Bregman’s likely done in Houston, but the question now is whether Detroit will step up with the kind of offer it’ll take to land him.
