The Detroit Tigers are making a big splash this offseason and putting themselves in a strong position to win the AL Central. While the Alex Bregman sweepstakes have garnered most of the baseball world’s attention, the Tigers have made a significant roster improvement with a pivotal move by signing 29-year-old right-hander Jack Flaherty to a two-year, $35 million contract. This move is noteworthy because Flaherty’s market value declined due to concerns about his velocity and postseason performance.

Detroit took advantage of the chance to bring him back into the fold after first trading him to the Yankees in exchange for prospects. The addition greatly strengthens their pitching rotation by providing depth and experience. With Flaherty now reunited with the Tigers, the team’s rotation is looking more formidable than ever. Will the Tigers’ aggressive offseason moves be enough to secure Bregman and propel them into AL Central contention?

Stealing a Yankees discard? Flaherty’s return strengthens Tigers’ rotation

The Detroit Tigers have made a clever move by bringing back Jack Flaherty on a short-term deal after his market value took an unexpected hit. Initially anticipated to secure a four-year, $92 million contract, Flaherty instead received little interest due to worries over his velocity reduction, postseason performance, and medical history—factors that even led his trade to the Yankees to fall through last year. Seizing the chance, the Tigers swooped in and signed him for just $35 million on a favorable two-year contract, adding much-needed depth to their rotation.

Detroit’s pitching lineup, which already has Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal, recent addition Alex Cobb, and up-and-coming star Jackson Jobe, is instantly strengthened by Flaherty’s return. His return was a wise front-office move by Scott Harris, as the Tigers had earlier sold him to get prospects Trey Sweeney and Thayron Liranzo. By making this move, Detroit is establishing itself as a legitimate AL Central contender by striking a balance between young talent and seasoned experience.

The addition of Flaherty gives the team a seasoned arm that can produce quality innings, which is essential throughout the lengthy MLB season. With a one-year opt-out clause in his contract, he may restore his worth and provide Detroit a temporary lift without committing to a long-term financial deal. The Tigers’ methodical strategy shows their aggressive attitude in the current market, as they are steadfast in their pursuit of elite players like Alex Bregman in addition to strengthening their pitching staff.

Alex Bregman sweepstakes: Detroit’s biggest offseason play yet

While Flaherty strengthens the pitching staff, the Tigers’ pursuit of Alex Bregman is a more significant message. He reportedly declined a $156 million deal from the Houston Astros in favor of a longer commitment. Boston trails behind with a four-year offer, while Detroit has emerged as a top candidate with at least a five or six-year deal. Fit and familiarity may be the deciding factors in the Bregman contest. He would rejoin former Astros manager A. J. Hinch, under whom he flourished during Houston’s World Series-winning tenure if he signs with Detroit. On the other hand, Boston is an attractive destination but would likely require Bregman to shift to second base under Alex Cora, something that may not be ideal for the All-Star third baseman.

Tigers’ president of baseball operations, Scott Harris, recently confirmed that the team is still actively looking to bolster both its lineup and bullpen. “We’re not done,” Harris stated in a media call. “We’re going to try to find new ways to make this team better… Bullpen and lineup are two areas we’re going to look to upgrade if we can.” With the Tigers willing to offer the long-term stability Bregman desires, they are in a prime position to win the bidding war.

If Detroit successfully acquires Bregman, they will greatly improve their infield and make their lineup one of the most potent in the AL Central. The Tigers would go from being mid-tier contenders to real contenders if they combined Bregman’s outstanding hitting and defensive abilities with their already strong rotation. The Tigers have adopted a strategic yet assertive offseason strategy. Detroit is showing that they are ready to win, not just rebuild, by acquiring Flaherty in what insiders call a Yankees discard steal and aggressively pursuing Bregman. The AL Central crown may soon have a new owner if both strategies work out.