Detroit Tigers Weighing Justin Turner as Plan B if Alex Bregman Deal Falls Through

The Detroit Tigers have been linked to Alex Bregman throughout the offseason, but with the market for the star third baseman stalled, the team may have to consider alternative options.

Justin Turner: A Veteran Solution?

According to Chad Jennings of The Athletic, if the Tigers fail to land Bregman, a short-term deal with Justin Turner could be a smart backup plan.

“Gleyber Torres and Matt Vierling are their only everyday righties — and Turner could play first base and DH while letting manager A.J. Hinch mix and match with lefty hitters Kerry Carpenter, Colt Keith, and Jace Jung. Turner would also give the Tigers a massive clubhouse presence as they try to build on last season’s breakout,” Jennings wrote.

Turner’s Value at 40 Years Old

While Turner’s power numbers dipped in 2024 (hitting 11 home runs, down from 23 in 2023), he still brings:
✅ Right-handed power the Tigers lack.
✅ Versatility (plays first base, third base, DH).
✅ Proven playoff experience (2020 World Series champion with the Dodgers).
✅ Clubhouse leadership for a young Detroit squad.

Cost Comparison: Turner vs. Bregman

💰 Bregman: Expected to land a long-term, $150M+ contract.
💰 Turner: Available for a short-term, affordable deal.

Would Turner Make Sense for Detroit?

Signing Turner would:
🔹 Allow financial flexibility for future moves.
🔹 Provide a stopgap at third base, first base, and DH.
🔹 Give young players time to develop (Colt Keith, Jace Jung).

However, Turner isn’t a long-term solution at third base, and if the Tigers want a true impact bat, Bregman remains the better option.

What’s Next?

Detroit made the ALDS in 2024 and has playoff aspirations again in 2025. If Bregman’s market doesn’t develop soon, the Tigers may pivot to Turner as a short-term fix to solidify their lineup.