Detroit Tigers Roster Rumors: Justin Upton Signs Mega-Deal
The Detroit Tigers finally have agreed to deal with free-agent outfielder Justin Upton on Monday, with the figures reportedly at $132.75 million for six years. The contract will officially be inked when Upton passes his physical by Thursday.
The athletic and versatile 28-year-old has succeeded in showing the entire league that he deserves a big contract. He is one of the most flexible outfielders in the game and has been an All-Star three times in a young career spanning nine years.
With the kind of money Detroit is giving him, the team is sending a message to the rest of the league; that they are focused on building a serious contender this season. Obviously, team owner Mike Ilitch has a hand in this deal, and with that amount, it's just impossible to think he's not on board.
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Upton became a free agent this summer after playing for the San Diego Padres last season, where he produced a batting average of .251 and hit 26 home runs, along with 81 RBIs.
When the Atlanta Braves sent him to San Diego in December of 2014, the sudden change in teams and role looked to be challenging for Upton, but he was quick to adjust and respond with more than decent numbers.
However, the Padres, after doing several major offseason moves, couldn't capitalize on a retooled roster, eventually finishing fourth in their division.
Upton's addition to the Tigers lineup means they get a player who comes in with a high level of reliability and consistency in offense. He managed to hit more than 15 home runs in the previous six years in the league.
What's even more remarkable is that he's still very young and currently at his prime. Therefore, locking him up for six years might just be the wisest move Detroit made this offseason. Obviously, the team is hoping he'll have the same success or even more compared to last season with the Padres.
