The Detroit Tigers have spent a long time looking for someone to play third base. Last year they worked very hard to try and sign Alex Bregman to a massive contract. Their offer was very high and almost matched the deal he eventually took this winter. Because they were so close before many people expected them to try again this year.

However a new report says the team made a very confusing choice this winter. Even though they still need a third baseman they did not even try to talk to Bregman this time. While other teams were bidding for his services the Tigers stayed completely silent. This has left many fans and sports writers wondering why the front office changed its mind so suddenly.

Bregman ended up signing a five-year deal worth one hundred and seventy-five million dollars with the Chicago Cubs. The Tigers could have easily afforded a similar deal but they chose not to get involved at all. Instead of adding a veteran star the team seems happy to stick with the players they already have. They are likely going to keep using Zack McKinstry as one of their main options for the upcoming season.

This decision is especially strange because not much has changed with the team’s roster since last year. They still need more power in their lineup and a leader in the locker room. Bregman is an All-Star player who has won championships and would have been a perfect fit for a young team like Detroit. By not making an offer they let a great opportunity slip away to a rival team.

The Tigers’ leadership has not given a clear reason for why they backed off. Some think they might be saving money for a different player or trusting their younger prospects to grow. Whatever the reason fans are frustrated because the team had a clear chance to get better and didn’t take it. Now they will have to face Bregman as an opponent instead of having him on their side.