The Detroit Tigers’ path to landing Bregman becomes clearer after a big Astros trade

The Detroit Tigers could be one step closer to their dream free agent destination.

For a time, it appeared the Tigers were out of the running for free agency to sign Alex Bregman, the Houston Astros’ star third baseman, but as the Winter Meetings raged on and Bregman was not signed, Detroit was selected as one of the four Finalists named land his signature.

Perhaps the biggest threat to the Chase has always been a possible reunion with the Astros, but on Friday afternoon something appears to have changed on that front.

Houston sent star right fielder Kyle Tucker to the Chicago Cubs in exchange for a package that included third baseman Isaac Paredes, pitcher Hayden Weneski and infielding prospect Cam Smith, who also has the most experience at the hot corner.

With Tucker set to hit free agency next winter, it was unlikely the Astros would give him the mega-deal he was hoping for, so they sent him out of town instead.

With a third baseman – possibly two – acquired as part of the deal and Houston seemingly beginning to rebuild, Bregman’s return to the Astros has become a lot less likely.

If this is indeed the case and Houston will no longer make any real effort to retain its franchise icon, the path will be drastically cleared for the possibility of Bregman coming to the Motor City and playing under his former manager AJ Hinch.

However, the Tigers will still have competition for the nine-year veteran.

In fact, even if they are serious about signing him, it will still be difficult to sign him with the New York Yankees, who are looking to make another splash after being heavily involved in negotiations for Tucker but after losing the best hitter in baseball , Juan Soto, had to go to the New York Mets.

Bregman could be the perfect solution to the Yankees’ disappointing offseason so far, and if they decide to pay up, there may not be much Detroit can do to match an offer.

Scott Harris simply won’t get involved in a bidding war with New York.

If Bregman comes to the Tigers, it will be in a deal that came about after his market narrowed. Although it is still entirely possible and has become much more plausible, do not rule out the possibility of the Evil Empire arriving and speak up first.