The Tigers are making a serious push for Alex Bregman, joining the Red Sox and Astros in offering at least four-year deals to the two-time All-Star third baseman. It’s a move that could significantly boost Detroit’s lineup as they look to build on last season’s second-half surge.
Bregman’s still holding out for a six-year commitment, but the market isn’t quite meeting his expectations. The Astros did put a six-year, $156 million offer on the table and have since sweetened the deal, though it hasn’t been enough to get his signature.
What makes Detroit an intriguing landing spot is the AJ Hinch connection. The Tigers’ skipper was at the helm in Houston when Bregman won his first World Series ring in 2017, and they made it back to the Fall Classic together in 2019.
The numbers show why teams are interested. Bregman posted a .260/.315/.453 line last year, launching 26 homers and driving in 75 runs. His 4.1 WAR proves he’s still an impact player on both sides of the ball.
Detroit’s got a clear need here. They’re looking for another right-handed bat, and third base is thier most glaring hole. With spring training already underway, there’s growing pressure to get something done.
“The Detroit Tigers, Boston Red Sox and the Houston Astros have all made offers of at least four years to Bregman, but no one has been willing to meet his asking price,” reports Bob Nightengale.
The way things are trending, Bregman might need to adjust his expectations. A shorter deal with a higher annual value could be the sweet spot – something that might play right into Detroit’s hands as they try to make their postseason push more than a one-time thing.
