Tigers rumors: Detroit unlikely to re-sign Anibal Sanchez

It’s become "quite clear" that free agent right-hander Anibal Sanchez is unlikely to re-sign with the Detroit Tigers unless he’s willing "to leave a whole pile of money on the table," reports Tony Paul of The Detroit News:

On the heels of Zack Greinke signing the largest contract ever for a right-handed pitcher — six years, $147 million — it's become quite clear that Anibal Sanchez, barring an unlikely willingness to leave a whole pile of money the table, will not be returning to the Tigers.

Paul notes that Sanchez has seemingly hit the open market "at the perfect time," as he’s currently considered the second best right-handed starter behind Zack Greinke, who recently signed a six-year, $147 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The Tigers acquired Sanchez last July along with infielder Omar Infante in exchange for Rob Brantly, Jacob Turner and Brian Flynn. While he was initially expected to simply be a half-season rental for Detroit to aid in their attempt at a World Series title, it became clear this offseason that the team had initial interest in re-signing the right-hander.

Sanchez maintained an ERA of 3.86 over 31 starts spanning 195 2/3 innings last season for the Marlins and Tigers.