Tigers Could Be 'All In' on $120 Million Third Baseman If Red Sox Sell

Newsweek

3 hours ago

Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
The Detroit Tigers are still searching for a long-term answer at third base after coming up short in the offseason.
Manager A.J. Hinch has made things work with Zach McKinstry, but that doesn't mean he would say no to an upgrade. The Tigers will certainly be looking for one next month, and MLB insider Bob Nightengale sees Alex Bregman as an option if Red Sox become sellers.
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - MAY 21: Alex Bregman #2 of the Boston Red Sox throws to first during the ninth inning against the New York Mets at Fenway Park on May 21, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts....
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS - MAY 21: Alex Bregman #2 of the Boston Red Sox throws to first during the ninth inning against the New York Mets at Fenway Park on May 21, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts. More"The Tigers tipped their hand when they offered Alex Bregman a 6-year, $171.5 million free-agent contract last winter," wrote Nightengale. "If the Red Sox shop him, they're all in again, still in need of a third baseman. The Tigers realize this is their chance to return to the World Series for the first time since 2012, and win it for the first time since 1984. They've got ace Tarik Skubal under control through only 2026 and need to take full advantage of having the finest pitcher in the game."
Bregman would slot right in as the every day third baseman for the Tigers, and he would thrive in a reunion with Hinch. So far this year, he is hitting .299 with 11 home runs and 35 RBI as well as an OPS+ of 159.
Boston would be in a tough spot to move Bregman as it wouldn't have anyone to cover the hot corner. However, it's unlikely Bregman would want to stay beyond this year if the Red Sox aren't contenders. The Tigers are the best team in the American League and would get a huge boost from his services offensively and defensively.
If Bregman were to be traded, the Tigers are one of the best landing spots for him. They have the financial flexibility to pay him beyond the remainder of this season, and bringing in Bregman could help convince Tarik Skubal to sign a long-term deal.
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