Tigers in stalemate with top free agent

The Detroit Tigers need another potent bat in the lineup. Third baseman Alex Bregman is still on the market. It would appear to be a perfect match.

That may not be the case. Evan Petzold of the Detroit Free Press reported that talks between Bregman and the Tigers are "at a standstill" due to the third baseman's asking price. Bregman is reportedly targeting a $200 million contract and is not interested in a short-term deal.

Bregman would be an immediate upgrade to the lineup. Tigers third basemen produced a combined .242/.301/.371 batting line, hitting 25 homers. The Tigers ranked in the bottom half of the majors in each category making third base a clear area of need. Bregman, meanwhile, posted a .260/.315/.453 batting line in his 634 plate appearances, hitting 26 homers and 30 doubles.

The Tigers have been connected to Bregman throughout the offseason. Petzold reported in December that there is mutual interest between the two sides. Scott Boras, Bregman's agent, noted the relationships between Bregman and members of the organization. Manager A.J. Hinch was Bregman's first manager with the Astros, while bullpen catcher Chris Chinea was not just Bregman's teammate in college, but also his roommate for two years.

The Tigers are not Bregman's only suitor. The Yankees have been linked to the two-time All-Star, but they are reportedly content to give DJ LeMahieu another chance at third. The Red Sox, Cubs and Blue Jays have been listed as possible destinations as well. However, the Tigers may be the best fit for Bregman. As spring training gets closer, it may be a matter of meeting somewhere in the middle on a contract or waiting for the other side to blink.