Alex Bregman received his only true long-term deal from the Detroit Tigers last offseason; however, the money didn’t match his desired price. Instead, Bregman decided to sign a short-term deal with the Boston Red Sox. Now, after the third baseman opted out of his contract, the Tigers have another chance to sign him, and his latest social media post has sparked speculation.
Bregman’s latest social media post features him and Detroit first baseman Spencer Torkelson working out in Scottsdale, Arizona, during the offseason. In fact, Torkelson reposted Bregman’s post to his Instagram story. This has only fueled speculation that Bregman could be in play for the Tigers again.
The former Houston Astros third baseman thought he was going to Detroit for the majority of the 2024 offseason, so the team clearly has interest in his services. However, the details behind a contract and frustrations with the negotiation process could stand in the way.
Why Alex Bregman is still a fit for the Detroit Tigers
The Tigers have a solid infield, but Bregman would take it to the next level. The 31-year-old free agent would bring elite defense, an above-average bat, and exceptional leadership in the clubhouse. All of which the MLB team would love to have for the 2026 MLB season.
Detroit thinks highly of projected third baseman Colt Keith, but Bregman would give the team a better chance of winning right now. If the Tigers were to sign Bregman, it would likely freeze Keith out of a spot in the infield. It could push the organization to use the young infielder as a designated hitter or as trade bait.
However, the contract demands might be the biggest obstacle. The Tigers have previously shown they will commit to Bregman long-term, but that might have changed over the last 365 days. If so, Detroit might not be the best landing spot. But why would the organization pass on the opportunity of acquiring an All-Star third baseman?
The Tigers need better infield defense, more offense, and another clubhouse leader. Detroit should look past the financials and sign a player who would fix many needs within the organization. With one phone call, the Tigers can change their entire outlook for 2026, and Bregman is still the right fit.
