If you’re a fan of Alex Bregman, you’re waiting for him to make a move. And if you’re a fan of the Detroit Tigers, then you’re waiting for them to make a splash too! Fans from both sides are considerably angry because of all the waiting. Bregman is seeking a deal worth $200 million, but no one has offered that much to him yet. On the other hand, the Detroit Tigers want Bregman but haven’t been able to match his expected amount.

The third baseman will turn 31 next year, so naturally, the team is hesitant to invest so much money in a player who will be prone to injuries. But the Tigers are said to be the best match given their shared connection with A.J. Hinch. Hinch worked with Bregman during his prime years with the Astros before moving to the Detroit Tigers. The club has not made any big signings yet and people are understandably disappointed.

Analyst not happy with the Tigers’ lack of trying 

Sports analyst Ben Verlander wrote on X, “The more I think about it, the more I get angrier and angrier. What a treat it was to watch that Tigers run last year. They also have the best pitcher in baseball. They are ready to win. How can you be in charge and NOT see how much a big signing would fire up this fan base?” Alex Bregman has been a vital part of the Astros for nine years and a fan favorite. If the Tigers do sign the 30-year-old, the probability is that he will win the hearts of the Tigers’ fans too!

Plus, Detroit needs this signing. They haven’t exactly had much luck this offseason, and frankly, they haven’t even tried to. This signing may give fans the boost they so much need. Detroit is more likely to wait and watch how the market develops before making a shorter-term offer if Bregman’s market falls short of expectations. In addition to providing Detroit with a third base, Bregman also adds a potent, top right-handed bat to the order. The 30-year-old offers a winning attitude and senior presence to a young squad trying to figure out how to move forward.

Detroit Tigers’ backup plan if they don’t get Alex Bregman 

The Tigers’ decision to sign Gleyber Torres to a one-year, $15 million contract is a positive step in addressing their need for a right-handed hitter. However, they still require another bat to balance their left-handed-heavy lineup. Acquiring a right-handed power hitter would provide more consistency against left-handed pitching and add depth to the offense. Sure, there is interest in third baseman Alex Bregman, but what if that doesn’t work out?

Enter right fielder Anthony Santander. Bergman offers a strong bat, plate discipline, and playoff experience, making him an ideal fit for the Tigers’ needs, though his price tag may be higher. Santander, on the other hand, is a power hitter who can impact both sides of the plate, providing immediate lineup protection for left-handed hitters. Anthony Santander’s impressive average of 35 home runs and 153 games per season makes him an intriguing option for the Tigers. He has a .795 OPS, combined with a solid 8.5% walk rate and 20.5% strikeout rate.

With Santander not expected to return to the Orioles in 2025, the Tigers have an opportunity to capitalize on this potential acquisition. As a switch-hitter, Santander offers versatility, making him an even more appealing target for a Tigers team in need of a right-handed bat. There is one small hiccup, though. His plate discipline issues aren’t as pronounced as a player like Javier Báez, making him a more controlled risk for the Tigers. Who do you think the Tigers should go for? Anthony Santander or Alex Bregman?