Scott Harris and the Detroit Tigers have done a solid job of checking several boxes on the offseason to-do list, and it is apparent that done just yet. Possibly looking to add an additional power bat to a steadily improving lineup. The ongoing debate being, who fits a need between Alex Bregman and Santander. The Tigers have expressed interest in both individuals. There are pros and cons to support both players but the question is who makes the most sense?

Alex Bregman

Bregman is a Third Basemen that would brings a ton of success and experience in the post season. He has the 8th most postseason at bats all-time, and the 5th most home-runs (8) to go along with it. He is a 2-time World Series Champion, one of which he won with current Tiger Manager AJ Hinch at the helm. He is a 2-time All-star that fits a positional need for the Tigers. His bat would provide more balance to the lineup, and stability in the run producing category. Bregman, continues to be elite defensively, winning his first Gold Glove Award just this pass season.

Cons:

Bregman is coming off a year where his run production has declined from 98 RBIs to 75. A far cry from his peak year in 2019 where he batted in 112 runners. With him being on the wrong side of 30 and looking for a long-term extension there may be some concern if he is on a permanent regression. The larger dimensions of Comerica Park will certainly not aid him in the power department. In addition, given Bregman’s current offensive production, his asking price may also be an issue. Chris Illitch has already been tagged with the reputation of being a “penny pincher”, so the idea of him coming to an agreement with a Scott Boras client seems bleak. Bregman has already turned down an offer from his former team of 6 years and $156 million.

There’s a chance Santander is just better than Bregman pic.twitter.com/5QJBNoiyCm

— eddie ☘️ (@e_dddie) December 30, 2024

Anthony Santander

Santander Is a switch-hitting power bat that primarily has played RF, but has also played some first base as well. Santander is 30 years year as well but appears to be ascending and hitting his stride just in time for his contract year. His estimated asking price ranges anywhere from 4 years $80 million to 5 years $105 million. These numbers would appear to be more in Detroit’s wheelhouse budget wise. Santander is coming off a career year where he slugged 42 Home runs and 102 RBIs with splits of .235/.308/.506/.814. A signing of Santander would give the Tigers two all-star outfielders from the previous year.

Cons:

Santander’s primary position of right field doesn’t necessarily fit a pressing need for the team. Santander is a below average defender and does not provide much positional versatility, although he has plated first base in the past. Ultimately the acquisition likely moves Kerry Carpenter into the field more, while also pushing young players like Wenceel Perez and Justin-Henry Malloy out of the fold, unless they can find more at-bats in the infield somewhere.

As of right now Bregman seems to be the #1 priority due to his experience and positional value at the plate, as well on the field. With that said, if Detroit and Boras aren’t able to come to a happy medium price wise, Santander can certainly provide some much needed thunder as he continues to ascend offensively. Santander has become one of the premiere power hitters in the Majors. He finished 3rd, blasting 3 more homers than generational talent Juan Soto.