Gleyber Torres returning should inspire Tigers to make run at Alex Bregman

Gleyber Torres’ return to the Detroit Tigers for 2026 signals that Scott Harris must sign Alex Bregman. The superstar third baseman is still in his prime and a necessary asset for the team going forward.

The last few seasons, third base was occupied by Zack McKinstry, Andy Ibanez and Matt Vierling but some insiders are projecting the Tigers have the biggest chance to sign Bregman. While McKinstry was a solid hitter and finished with his first All-Star appearance and Silver Slugger in 2025, Bregman is undoubtedly the better option. Third base has been a revolving door with question marks and stability is needed.

Bregman finished with a .273/.360/.462 slash line and .821 OPS. The 31-year-old was on his way to becoming a Tiger last year before Boston swooped in at the last minute with a more attractive offer. He is reportedly looking for a five-to-six-year deal in the $160 million range. Bregman signed a three-year, $120 million deal with the Red Sox, eventually opting out, so the Tigers have an expectation as to what Bregman really wants this time around.

Bregman’s potential signing means more than just upgrading the offense. The uncertainty of Tarik Skubal’s future with the Tigers makes this upcoming year ever more important. The two-time Cy Young award winner must be backed with offense that can score runs and give him a lead, as we saw to be a massive issue in the ALDS.

The initiative to sign players this offseason could help to sign Skubal in free agency next year as well. This postseason, the team averaged 2.25 runs per game with Skubal on the mound which is far below unacceptable. Skubal constantly had to pitch his best with little to no mistakes to keep leads. Skubal may want to be a Tiger for a long time, but the team's unwillingness to spend in free agency may force him to choose another contender with an open checkbook.

Torres’ return is also a sign that Harris failed at the deadline. Harris’ inability to get bats for the postseason was a big problem. Torres was a great addition last offseason but he struggled in the postseason with a .235/.316/.382 line (likely because of the injury he was dealing with, but still). His veteran presence is underrated, especially on a young team, but without his success at the plate the offense is limited. The squad needed more bats for the postseason and the Tigers’ qualifying offer was the bare minimum to help the team offensively. 

One thing is certain in the postseason: superstars show up. Bregman’s postseason sample this year was limited — due to only playing in three games — but he has a proven track record delivering in the clutch. To compete for the World Series, the Tigers must spend money. Bregman is among the answers.

Most contenders have veterans sprinkled across their lineups. Teams like the Yankees, Phillies and Dodgers all have players who have October experience and have vied for a championship. Harris has yet to make a big acquisition or trade since joining the Tigers organization. Bregman’s addition could rewrite Harris’ Detroit legacy and give the Tigers a real shot at winning the World Series.