Remember 2024, when a top MLB insider, Cody Stavenhagen, predicted the transfer and signing of Jack Flaherty to the Tigers? Perhaps the trade did come true as they signed the 29-year-old former Dodgers pitcher for a two-year, $35 million contract. Now coming to the present scenario, Stavenhagen is back with another prediction: Alex Bregman’s potential trade from the Houston Astros. How does it seem possible? Let’s first start with Flaherty’s surprise signing.
Jack Flaherty was on the Tigers’ radar for quite some time, until he agreed to the Tigers’ offer. The former Los Angeles Dodgers right-hander went 13-7 with a 3.17 ERA over the 28 starts he made in 2024 with the Tigers and also the Dodgers, who acquired him on July 30. While Flaherty is back again with them, the Tigers aren’t done yet as they try to get Bregman. However, there’s another team keeping an eye on him—the Toronto Blue Jays, maybe?
The Tigers are not done yet this offseason post Flaherty’s signing
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Right after signing the right-handed pitcher, Jack Flaherty, for a two-year, $35 million deal, the Tigers have emerged as one of the strong contenders for an All-Star free agent, Alex Bregman. As the MLB offseason progresses, Alex Bregman’s potential move has been heating up as well. The main reason? Well, Alex Bregman is seeking a long-term deal worth at least $200 million for five to six years, which no clubs are willing to offer, thus remaining a free agent currently. And now on February 4, the Tigers’ insider, Cody Stavenhagen, said on the Foul Territory, “Yeah, I don’t think they are done; the right bat is a priority one way or another. Bregman’s obviously the big fish. I think they’ve shaped a lot of RCs around staying in Alex Bregman’s pursuit. We are going to see what happens, and then we can talk more about it.” Stavenhagen feels that the Tigers needed a right-handed bat, and Bregman perfectly fits that place for them.
Alex Bregman has had a good 2024 season overall, with a.260 batting average, scoring 26 home runs, 75 RBIs, and a.768 OPS. His addition makes sense as their lefty-heavy lineup would get a right-handed bat and also fill the gaps at third base. Additionally, Bregman’s presence could give a much-needed boost to the young squad that could benefit from his leadership too. He also mentioned that even if the Detroit Tigers do not get Alex Bregman, they could go for Randal Grichuk, the outfielder, or even Nolan Arenado. However, adding a right-handed bat remains the top priority for them, as it will bolster their lineup and improve their chances of making it to the playoffs in the upcoming series. But there’s a roadblock, as the Blue Jays are in pursuit of him as well.
The Blue Jays emerge as a potential contender for Bregman
While the Toronto Blue Jays have made some significant moves by signing a free agent, Anthony Santander, they are looking to make more acquisitions this offseason. Given that Alex Bregman fits their purpose and roster needs, the Blue Jays have preferred Bregman over Pete Alonso. More importantly, their third baseman, Ernie Clement, has underperformed, which paves the way for the All-Star free agent, considering his Gold Glove defense and great offensive production. Alex Bregman had a great batting average of.272, scored 191 home runs, and in the last season, he made 26 home runs and 75 RBIs.
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Now if the Blue Jays get Alex Bregman, they would have to move Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to another position to ensure the best alignment with the roster. While prioritizing Bregman would help in retaining the existing lineup, his defensive prowess and great hitting abilities would make the Blue Jays a strong force to reckon with. As per reports, Bregman is assumed to sign a four-year, $119 million contract with the Blue Jays. However, the Houston Astros’ recent trade activities indicate a reunion between Bregman and the Astros, which further complicates the Blue Jays’ pursuit of him.
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It is too early to tell where Alex Bregman may find the perfect landing destination. While we keep you updated about the same, which team according to you can get Bregman? Let us know in the comment below.