Let’s discuss what happened with the Detroit Tigers and Alex Bregman. If you were hoping to see Bregman in the Old English “D” this season, it’s not happening.
The All-Star third baseman took Boston’s money instead, leaving Detroit with a solid—but unfulfilled—offer on the table.
But if you ask Tigers GM Scott Harris, he’s not losing any sleep over it.
Tigers Make a Strong Offer, but Bregman Walks
The Tigers went after Bregman with a six-year, $171.5 million offer. It’s not exactly chump change. But Bregman? Instead, he went for a three-year, $120 million deal with the Red Sox.
Less money, shorter term, different city. It’s a decision that raises some eyebrows, especially considering Detroit actually made it to the postseason last year—something the Red Sox can’t say.
So, was Harris disappointed? He says no. His response? “We want players who want to be here.” That’s a pretty clear message.
The Tigers swung big, but they weren’t going to beg. Bregman made his choice, and Detroit is moving on.
Confidence in Detroit’s Clubhouse
Harris is doubling down on confidence. “We’re going to be just fine without Alex Bregman,” he said.
“And we still have a clubhouse that just got to the postseason and just beat a team with Alex Bregman, so it clearly can be done.”
That’s some good old-fashioned swagger; honestly, he’s not wrong. Detroit knocked out Houston in the playoffs last season, and Bregman was in the lineup for that series.
So, what now? Well, the Tigers are rolling with their current roster. Andy Ibáñez, Jace Jung, and Matt Vierling are potential third-base options. It’s not Bregman, but it’s a plan.
Harris also made it clear that ownership is willing to spend when the time is right. They landed Jack Flaherty this offseason, and they’ll keep looking for opportunities.
Bregman Faces a New Challenge in Boston
As for Bregman, he’s heading to Boston—but not necessarily to play his usual position.
The Red Sox are planning to move him over to second base, a new challenge for the veteran infielder. That shift could take some adjusting, but Boston’s betting on his bat is worth it.
Bottom line? The Tigers took their shot, Bregman took a different route, and Harris isn’t dwelling on it. Detroit focuses on the guys in camp, and if their GM is to be believed, this team is still primed to compete.
