The Detroit Tigers are expected to be aggressive in MLB free agency as they look to improve the roster heading into 2026. Coming off back-to-back trips to the divisional round, the club has fallen one win short of reaching the ALCS in both years.
Despite that, there is reason for optimism in Detroit, especially with left-handed ace Tarik Skubal still on the roster despite persistent trade speculation.
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The Tigers have already shown a willingness to commit money early in the offseason, re-signing second baseman Gleyber Torres on the qualifying offer.
One infielder who could completely change the lineup, third basemanAlex Bregman, is once again available on the free-agent market after opting out of his deal with the Boston Red Sox.
MLB free agent third baseman Alex Bregman (2)© Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
As it was last offseason, Detroit figures to be right in the mix for his services again. “Bregman is in excellent shape with the Tigers and Cubs both with interest and, of course, the incumbent/favored Red Sox,” Jon Heyman of the New York Post reported.
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The Tigers will have to compete with other contenders, yet perhaps there is something brewing between Detroit first baseman Spencer Torkelson and Bregman.
Torkelson shared a collaborative post on Instagram with Nemesis Baseball, training at the facility where Bregman also works out. Not only did Bregman repost the photos with three flex emojis, but he also left a comment saying, “Tork! Tork! Tork!”
Alex Bregman reacts on Instagram to a post from Detroit Tigers first baseman Spencer Torkelson@a_breg1 on Instagram
It is clear the pair has formed a bond over the offseason, and perhaps Torkelson could help persuade Bregman to join the Tigers. There is also a connection between Tigers manager A.J. Hinch and Bregman, as Hinch managed him during his tenure with the Houston Astros. If Bregman is added, he would immediately become one of the best hitters in a lineup that struggled to produce consistently last year.
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During his 2025 season with the Red Sox, Bregman posted a .273 batting average, .360 on-base percentage, .821 OPS, 18 home runs and 62 RBIs across 114 appearances. A three-time All-Star, two-time World Series champion, Gold Glove winner and Silver Slugger in his 10-year MLB career, Bregman would bring both championship pedigree and consistent production.
For a franchise that has been knocking on the door of contention, landing Bregman could be the move that finally pushes the Tigers into the next tier and sets the stage for a legitimate run at the American League pennant.
Related: Tigers’ Kerry Carpenter Announces Off-Field Gesture Amid MLB Offseason
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 5, 2025, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.