Detroit Tigers and Alex Bregman: Latest Trade and Contract Rumors

The Detroit Tigers’ offseason strategy keeps circling around one name: Alex Bregman. After pushing hard for the star infielder last year, Detroit still lingers in the mix this winter, though they’re moving with a lot more caution.

With several teams circling and the infield market still unsettled, Bregman’s free agency feels like a slow-burning drama. The outcome could carry real weight for the Tigers and the rest of MLB.

The Tigers’ Past Pursuit and Present Caution

Last offseason, the Tigers looked serious about upgrading their infield and lineup. Reports say Detroit offered Bregman a six-year, $171.5 million contract, including an opt-out after 2026.

That was a bold, franchise-altering proposal. It showed they wanted to leave the rebuild behind and chase real contention.

This winter? The tone feels different. Sources told the Detroit Free Press that Detroit’s interest in Bregman is “lukewarm” now.

The front office hasn’t shown new urgency or movement. They seem content to let the market play out, rather than jump back into negotiations first.

A Wait-and-See Approach

Detroit’s front office is weighing patience against opportunity. By waiting, maybe they’ll benefit if Bregman’s market cools off, opening the door to talks on better terms.

Of course, there’s a risk. Another club might swoop in with an offer and take Bregman off the board for good.

Bregman’s Market and Competing Suitors

The Tigers aren’t the only ones watching Bregman. The Blue Jays, Cubs, Diamondbacks, and Red Sox have all been linked to him, though the level of interest varies.

Here’s the catch: both Chicago and Boston seem wary of long-term deals for the veteran infielder.

That hesitation isn’t new. Last winter, the Cubs reportedly offered Bregman a four-year deal worth between $115 million and $120 million.

Instead, he landed in Boston on a three-year, $120 million contract. The deal had early opt-outs, giving both sides some flexibility.

Performance Still Strong, But Not Explosive

Bregman, now heading into his age-32 season, put up solid numbers for the Red Sox in 2025. He batted .273 with a .360 on-base percentage and a .462 slugging percentage.

He hit 18 home runs in 495 plate appearances and made the All-Star team, despite missing seven weeks with a quad strain.

His season looked better than 2024, but it probably wasn’t dominant enough to trigger another huge, long-term contract like Detroit offered before.

A late-season slump didn’t help quiet the doubts.

Other Infield Dominoes Still Waiting to Fall

Bregman’s situation gets even trickier with other big-name infielders still on the market. Bo Bichette is a free agent, and Kazuma Okamoto opens his posting window on January 4.

Teams like Boston and Toronto might want to check out those options before locking in on Bregman.

In Arizona, the Diamondbacks’ ability to make a serious bid could hinge on moving Ketel Marte’s contract. If they pull that off, Arizona could become a bigger threat.

What It Means for Detroit

If other suitors look elsewhere, the Tigers might sneak back into the mix as one of the main bidders. The Cubs and Diamondbacks could jump in, too.

Right now, Detroit’s playing it safe. That leaves a few paths open:

Honestly, patience could pay off for Detroit, but it’s a gamble. For a team itching to level up, the way the Tigers handle the Bregman situation could shape their offseason—and maybe even their near future.

 
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