Tigers Rumors: Alex Bregman buzz now fully out of Detroit's favor

As long as free agent slugger Alex Bregman remains unsigned, Detroit Tigers fans can hold onto the glimmer of hope that he might land in the Motor City.

After all, it does make a lot of sense. AJ Hinch, Bregman's former manager with the Houston Astros, now holds the same position in Detroit; the Tigers don't have a clear answer at third base, which is Bregman's primary position; and they are in desperate need of some pop in the middle of their lineup. However, Detroit remains hesitant to hand out big contracts in free agency, and the Tigers aren't the only ones in the market for his services.

MLB Network insider Jon Heyman said as much on a recent episode of "Hot Stove," where he provided an update on Bregman's market that didn't sound too promising for Detroit.

“Bregman is an interesting one,” Heyman said. “I do believe it’s gonna work out great for him because right now I’m hearing there are five teams in it. I’m not sure exactly who the five teams are, but most likely, probably is the Red Sox. I understand he likely would have to play second base and he’d be willing to do it. … I think he fits them. They have not made a big signing at this point. … To me, I think they’re the most likely at this moment to sign Alex Bregman.”

Tigers Rumors: Alex Bregman buzz focusing on other AL team with notable Astros connection

In describing Bregman's fit with the Red Sox, Heyman noted the 30-year-old's willingness to play elsewhere in the infield, his World Series championship pedigree and his powerful, right-handed swing. That's not to mention that Bregman also played under Red Sox Alex Cora when he was the bench coach with the Astros from 2016-17.

Oh, and as of a new development on Thursday night, Bregman has reportedly re-engaged with the Astros, who have kept their $156 million offer on the table even after the star third baseman walked away from it earlier in the offseason. If this doesn't tell you that the Tigers are way in the rearview here, then we're not sure what will.

At this juncture, Bregman represents the Tigers' last remaining chance to make an impactful upgrade to their offense via free agency. But if they aren't willing to offer him a competitive long-term deal, then they should be prepared to see him shift the balance of powers in the AL at the Tigers' expense.

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