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The Tigers are in contract discussions with free-agent right-hander Jordan Zimmermann, according to a report from Ken Rosenthal and Jon Paul Morosi of FOXSports.com. The talks have "become serious," according to the report.
One source with knowledge of negotiations confirmed Saturday night that the Tigers are one of a "handful" of serious suitors for Zimmermann, though it is unknown at this time if Detroit is the favorite to sign him. Zimmermann is considered one of the top four free-agent starters available this winter, along with David Price, Zack Greinke and Johnny Cueto.
Zimmermann, 29, has been connected most frequently to the Cubs and Dodgers this offseason and is expected to command a six- or seven-year contract in free agency. The former National is not expected to receive a contract in the same neighborhood as Price or Greinke, but presents a younger option for teams looking for a front-end starter this winter.
Detroit was thought by some to be a candidate to jump into the mix for a high-end starter this winter, with Cueto and Price among its potential targets. The Tigers have Justin Verlander, Anibal Sanchez, Daniel Norris, Matt Boyd, Shane Greene and Kyle Lobstein projected in their rotation mix for next season.