The Detroit Tigers bolstered their outfield by inking 28-year-old Justin Upton to a six-year deal worth $132.75 million. The three-time all-star has an opt-out clause in his contract, which would enable him to hit the free agent market entering his age-30 season.
Upton, originally drafted number one overall by the Arizona Diamondbacks in the 2005 draft, spent the 2015 season with the San Diego Padres after being traded by the Atlanta Braves in December 2014. Upton hit 26 home runs, with 81 RBIs, and a .251/.336/.454 slash line in 2015 for the Padres.
Upton joins a talented lineup that includes second baseman Ian Kinsler, first baseman Miguel Cabrera, right fielder JD Martinez, and designated hitter Victor Martinez. With the fire power in the Tigers lineup, and the addition of Upton, the Tigers and owner Mike Illitch are attempting to make a playoff push in the 2016 season.
Upton, no doubt, is excited to join a lineup where he will not have to carry the team offensively. The key to the Tigers’ success is health. Cabrera has been hampered by minor injuries in recent years, although his production says otherwise. However, with protection around him, pitchers will surely have to pitch to Upton.
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