How Red Sox-Aroldis Chapman deal affects Tigers' pursuit of free agent bullpen arms

While the Detroit Tigers remain conspicuously – though, not surprisingly – quiet in free agency, several of their fellow American League teams have already begun making moves.

The Boston Red Sox, for example, agreed to a one-year, $10.75 million contract with left-handed reliever Aroldis Chapman, who, at 36 years old, remains an effective late-inning option and consistently hits triple digits on the radar gun.

The Tigers, like the Red Sox, are also in need of some bullpen reinforcements. While Chapman had never been linked to Detroit specifically, his signing is likely to have a ripple effect on the market for free agent relief pitchers this offseason. (Mind you, Chapman wasn't ever considered a top-50 free agent this offseason by MLB Trade Rumors – or anyone else, for that matter.)

While the signing itself hasn't been universally adored among Red Sox fans, Boston may have been wise to get ahead of the curve, as Chapman's deal will likely set a strong standard for his fellow free agent relievers.

How Red Sox-Aroldis Chapman deal affects Tigers' pursuit of bullpen arms in free agency

As good as the Tigers’ bullpen was for much of the 2024 season (and postseason), its 21.8% strikeout rate ranked 24th in MLB. With that in mind, Detroit should prioritize adding at least one proven reliever this offseason who can consistently strike batters out at a high rate.

Guys like Tanner Scott, David Robertson and Jeff Hoffman could all fit that bill for the Tigers. MLBTR projected Scott, who had a 1.75 ERA with the Miami Marlins and San Diego Padres in 2024, to earn a four-year, $56 million contract in free agency; but if a 36-year-old Chapman can command $10.75 million annually, then a 30-year-old Scott should easily be able to command more than $14 million per year.

That kind of contract might seem too rich for the Tigers' blood, but that's the price they'll have to pay for waiting to make a move in free agency. The Red Sox set a precedent with Chapman that will be favorable for relievers – and dangerous for the teams looking to sign them.

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