3 Former Tigers Detroit Can Sign for a Reunion in Free Agency
Detroit finally has some money to spend in free agency this offseason with the retirement of Miguel Cabrera and the departure of Eduardo Rodriguez.
There’s plenty of talented players available, including a few names you’re sure to recognize.
Let’s break down the three former Tigers most likely to return to Detroit this offseason (and learn how to win $200 in bonus bets at BetMGM).
3 Former Tigers Detroit Could Sign in Free Agency
It’s no secret that the Tigers have holes on their roster, and it wouldn’t hurt to patch them up with some former players.
Detroit’s most pressing needs are starting rotation help and power hitting, and that’s exactly what these former Tigers provide.
Michael Lorenzen, SP
Detroit’s starting rotation WAS anchored by Rodriguez, but his unlikely return creates a void.
And that’s not even to mention the litany of injuries to Tarik Skubal, Matt Manning and Casey Mize that have sidetracked their development.
As expected, the Phillies made Aaron Nola a qualifying offer. Rhys Hoskins, Craig Kimbrel and Michael Lorenzen did not get one. It does not close the door for Hoskins' return, but much depends on where Bryce Harper plays next year.
— Todd Zolecki (@ToddZolecki) November 6, 2023
A familiar and reliable veteran starter like Lorenzen is exactly what Detroit needs. He had a tough run with Philadelphia, but recorded a 3.58 ERA across 105 ⅔ innings with a 5-7 record as a Tiger to start last season.
Lorenzen could be a cheap innings eater the Tigers could use to fill out the back end of their rotation.
Jeimer Candelario, 3B
YIKES. Letting Candelario walk this past offseason sure looked like a mistake last season, didn’t it?
A Tigers team devoid of power outside of Spencer Torkelson, Jake Rogers and Kerry Carpenter definitely could have used Candelario (22 HR, 39 2Bs last season).
Detroit could also use a starting third basemen. Right now the top options are super-utility man Matt Vierling or a rookie call-up such as Justin Henry-Malloy. Candelario could help bridge that gap this season at a reasonable price.
J.D. Martinez, DH
Martinez was a fan favorite in Detroit during his stint from 2014-17 and has continued to be a bonafide slugger at every stop since.
Ohtani’s status as a free agent at least factored into the Dodgers’ decision not to extend to JD Martinez the $20.325M qualifying offer. LA is interested in bringing back the NL All-Star DH but must first try to see what their Ohtani chances are.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) November 7, 2023
He’s now 36-years-old and has 14 MLB seasons under his belt, BUT he did just hit 33 HRs with 103 RBIs and a .271 batting average LAST SEASON!
This move almost makes too much sense considering the retirement of Cabrera and Detroit’s need for a veteran hitter.
And even if it doesn’t work out, wouldn’t it be fun to root for Martinez in a Tigers uniform again?
The Tigers are sure to make some moves to better their roster this offseason, and you can do the same for your bankroll thanks to BetMGM! Just sign up with the link below and place your first bet of $10 or more on any wager! You’ll instantly win $200 in bonus bets. Sign up with BetMGM today!
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