Alex Bregman has the opportunity to hit free agency at the end of the season, signing a deal with opt-outs after each year with the Boston Red Sox last winter.
Reports have indicated that even if Bregman returns to the Red Sox, he's expected to opt out of that deal. While he might not get $40 million AAV, there's a very good chance that he’ll get a term extension, as he only has two years and $80 million remaining on his current deal with the Red Sox.
According to MLB Trade Rumors, the Detroit Tigers might have to pay a hefty price if they want him. Reports have indicated in the past that the Tigers could be interested in adding Bregman, as he has ties with A.J. Hinch and would be exactly what the team needs.
However, according to MLB Trade Rumors, topping that remaining $80 million won't be an issue for the All-Star.
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“Bregman isn’t technically a free agent yet, but barring some form of major injury in the final two months, he’s all but guaranteed to opt out of the remaining two years and $80MM on his contract. He’s not likely to secure another $40MM annual value — though you can argue that he didn’t truly get there anyhow, thanks to deferred money — but topping that remaining $80MM will be no problem,” Steve Adams wrote.
If the Tigers had to give out a six-year dollar deal for around $25 to $30 million AAV, one could argue that it's the right decision to make.
The Tigers are in a position to contend over the next few years if everything goes as planned, so there isn't much of a reason for them to be cheap if they can land a player of his caliber.