With negotiations stalled with third baseman Alex Bregman, the Detroit Tigers are turning their attention to upgrading their bullpen instead. According to Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press , signing All-Star third baseman Alex Bregman is still a top priority for the Tigers this offseason. But Detroit needs to sign a high-leverage reliever capable of closing out games and racking up saves. One name the Tigers have reportedly expressed interest in is ex-Phillies closer Carlos Estévez – arguably the top reliever still available.
As Alex Bregman Talks Stall, Tigers Concentrate on Strengthening Bullpen
The 32-year-old has been linked to at least six teams this offseason, most recently drawing interest from the Cincinnati Reds. An All-Star in 2023, Estévez was acquired by the Phillies from the Angels ahead of the trade deadline last season. He finished the 2024 campaign with a combined 2.45 ERA with 50 strikeouts and 26 saves over 55 innings. Estévez has been a reliable back-end option in recent years, posting a career-low 5.7 walk percentage and an above-average 23.6% strikeout rate last season. Over eight big league seasons between the Colorado Rockies, Angels, and the Phillies, the 32-year-old owns a 4.21 ERA in 438 appearances, with 82 saves. Sporting a four-pitch repertoire and a fastball velocity in the top 10%, Estévez is seemingly just now hitting his stride.
Spotrac predicts Estévez will sign a three-year deal in the $40 million range. If that is the case, the Tigers will likely not be able to sign both Estévez and Bregman.
Tigers Shifting Focus to Upgrading Bullpen Amid Bregman Standstill
Detroit has already added $30 million to their 2025 payroll by signing right-hander Alex Cobb and second baseman Gleyber Torres . The Tigers have the flexibility to make one more big signing, but it all depends on what happens with Bregman. The 30-year-old infielder is seeking a $200 million deal with no desire for a short-term contract, leading to a standstill .
If Bregman signs with the Tigers, then Detroit would likely pivot to a lower-tier closer like Kyle Finnegan , Kenley Jansen , or possibly Craig Kimbrel . Another option would be to sign a high-leverage reliever capable of closing out games, like Andrew Chafin or Kendall Graveman . Should Bregman sign elsewhere, then the Tigers would likely be more willing to spend for a top closer like Estévez. But with less than one month until Spring Training and a fast-moving reliever market, Detroit must decide between signing a power right-handed bat and an elite high-leverage reliever.
Main Photo Credits: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
The post As Alex Bregman Talks Stall, Tigers Concentrate on Strengthening Bullpen appeared first on Last Word On Baseball .