The Tigers reportedly agreed to a deal with a former New York Yankees middle infielder, which could have ramifications for the Boston Red Sox.
Detroit on Friday agreed to a one-year, $15 million contract with Gleyber Torres, according to the New York Post’s Jon Heyman and ESPN’s Jesse Rogers, who added Torres will play second base for the Tigers.
How does this relate to the Red Sox?
Torres could have been an option for Boston, but reports never really linked the sides. The more pressing topic is Alex Bregman. Does the reported Torres agreement take Detroit out of the running for Bregman?
That’s complicated. Interestingly, Rogers reported that Torres would play second base as the two-time All-Star reportedly turned down a deal with the Washington Nationals because he didn’t want to play third base. According to Chris McCosky of the Detroit News, Colt Keith was working on playing first base this offseason. However, it’s been speculated he could move to third base. If he doesn’t that leaves Jace Jung to play third base.
Are the Tigers comfortable with the 24-year-old playing third entering his second MLB season? Was Torres a backup option knowing they’re out on Bregman? Those are important questions for Boston amid its reported interest in the two-time World Series champion.
Detroit theoretically still could sign Bregman. However, it also is interested in giving its younger infielders more at-bats. But if the reported Torres agreement takes it out of the Bregman sweepstakes, that increases Boston’s chances further to sign the All-Star.
