Justin Upton finally has a new home and that is with the Detroit Tigers. Late Monday night, the 28 year-old outfielder agreed to a six year deal with the Tigers, reportedly worth $132.75 million. The deal was reported by MLB Insiders Jon Heyman and Ken Rosenthal and is pending physical.
The market for marquee impact bats has been slow and stagnant this offseason, but it seems as if things are starting to heat up as Chris Davis and Upton both agreed to contracts this week. Additionally, Yoenis Cespedes is expected to find a new home as well this week. Detroit’s owner Mike Illitch has repeatedly demonstrated that money will not stand in the way of the Tigers becoming World Series contender and this move is another demonstration of that philosophy. Upton now joins an already powerful offensive lineup that includes Ian Kinsler, Miguel Cabrera, Jose Iglesias, Victor Martinez, J.D. Martinez, and Cameron Maybin.
THIS JUST IN: Detroit Tigers and OF Justin Upton have agreed to a 6-year deal. (via @USATODAYsports) pic.twitter.com/UVXHYeXRLM
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) January 19, 2016
A former number one overall pick in 2005, Upton broke into the Majors with the Arizona Diamondbacks at the age of 19. Entering his age 28 season, Upton has already amassed a career batting average of .271 with 190 home runs and 616 RBIs. A three-time all-star and two-time Silver Slugger recipient, Upton has one career top-5 finish in MVP voting.
Most Career HR – Players Age-28 or Younger on Opening Day 2016 Justin Upton 190 (reportedly headed to Tigers) Giancarlo Stanton 181
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) January 19, 2016
Upton’s deal will cost the Tigers their 3rd round pick in the upcoming amateur draft. The Tigers had already forfeited their 2nd round pick in order to sign Jordan Zimmerman. Detroit maintains control over their first round draft choice, as it is top-ten protected. Upton’s deal includes an opt out after two seasons at which point he can re-enter the free agent market.
#Tigers lost 2nd draft pick with signing of Jordan Zimmermann. Upton would cost them their 3rd. First rounder – 9th overall – is protected.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) January 19, 2016
EORIA, AZ – MARCH 14: Justin Upton #10 of the San Diego Padres hits during the game against the Texas Rangers at the Peoria Stadium on March 14, 2015 in Peoria, AZ. (Photo by Andy Hayt/San Diego Padres/Getty Images)
