The current state of Major League Baseball's starting pitchers is uncharacteristically weak, with no pitcher exceeding 230 strikeouts last season, a notable decline from previous years. Paul Skenes from the Pittsburgh Pirates stands out with an average fastball speed of 98.8 mph, ranking first in ERA but facing injury risks. Tarik Skubal, excelling in multiple pitching metrics, may lack offensive support. Zack Wheeler remains a consistent choice, though his strikeout rate is moderate. Chris Sale, a former Cy Young winner, poses injury concerns as he ages. Dark horse candidates include Blake Snell and Garrett Crochet, both capable of leading in strikeouts but plagued by inconsistencies. Lastly, Jacob deGrom's historical excellence contrasts with recent injury struggles.

The Detroit Tigers have demonstrated an impressive turnaround, securing a playoff spot in the 2024 MLB season despite parting with key veterans such as Carson Kelly, Jack Flaherty, and Mark Canha. Their midseason surge propelled them to the No. 2 wild card, culminating in a postseason sweep against the Houston Astros.

Heading into the offseason, speculation centered around their free agency strategy. While they pursued big names like Alex Bregman, they ultimately settled for solid acquisitions in Gleyber Torres and Alex Cobb. The re-signing of Flaherty further bolsters their pitching staff, now anchored by Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal. As they develop young talent like Jackson Jobe, the Tigers appear poised for sustained playoff contention and might even challenge for the AL Central title soon.

The Detroit Tigers are shifting focus beyond the Alex Bregman saga and looking ahead to a promising season following their recent playoff berth. With a roster brimming with potential and spring training on the horizon, roster projections are taking shape. Notably, Kenta Maeda appears to be in line to secure a spot in the rotation, especially with Alex Cobb sidelined due to injury. After a disappointing previous season, Maeda's performance in bullpen sessions suggests he may reclaim a starting role, potentially competing with rising talents like Casey Mize and Matt Manning for the spot. Early projections indicate a rotation featuring Maeda, Tarik Skubal, and other key arms as the Tigers aim to build on their recent success.

The Detroit Tigers have broken their decade-long playoff drought by making it to the postseason in 2024, although their run ended in the Division Series against the Cleveland Guardians. With their top pitchers, Tarik Skubal and newly signed Jack Flaherty, potentially leaving in free agency soon, the franchise faces a crucial two-year window to pursue their first World Series title since 1984. ESPN's Buster Olney has identified third baseman Alex Bregman as a prime target, suggesting that signing him would signify a win-now mentality for Detroit.

Incorporating Bregman into the lineup alongside outfielder Riley Greene could invigorate an offense that includes Gleyber Torres, who seeks to bounce back from a down year. While rookie Jace Jung shows potential, his recovery from a wrist injury poses a risk. Bregman's proven veteran presence in high-stakes games could greatly benefit young talents like Parker Meadows and Colt Keith. Ultimately, securing Bregman could position the Tigers as serious contenders in their quest for a championship.