Detroit Tigers sign free agent to fill open starting spot at third base

DETROIT – The Detroit Tigers have signed a free agent who will likely fill their open starting position at third base.

The Tigers officially announced Thursday afternoon that they have signed Gio Urshela to a one-year deal worth $1.5 million. Urshela can earn an additional $100,000 for reaching each milestone of 500, 530, 560, 590, and 620 plate appearances.

Urshela was one of the top remaining free agent bats left on the market. The 32-year-old missed most of last season due to injuries, but in 2022 with the Twins, he posted a .285/.338/.429 line with 13 homers and 27 doubles in 144 games.

Since he first became a full-time player in 2019, Urshela has struggled to remain healthy. But when he is on the field, he’s productive, with a .291 average and .787 OPS during that span.

Urshela isn’t a star, but he’s been rock solid every season except for 2021 -- an outlier year with the Yankees in which he hit .267 but didn’t do much else.

The Tigers are getting an average defender who will consistently put the ball in play and provide modest power -- certainly an upgrade at the position from last year’s revolving door.

Urshela can play all four infield positions, but he’s primarily a third baseman, and that’s likely where he’ll slot in for the Tigers.

Detroit began spring training workouts with Matt Vierling prepared to make his case for the everyday role at third. Zach McKinstry seemed like a possible platoon partner from the left-handed batter’s box.

But now, Urshela almost certainly jumps to the top of the depth chart.

The Tigers didn’t want to make a long-term commitment to a third baseman and block top-100 prospect Jace Jung down the road, but a one-year deal with Urshela comes with almost no risk.

If Urshela is productive, the Tigers can take their time with Jung. If Jung is mashing in the minors, Urshela isn’t someone the Tigers have to worry about displacing. He could always be moved to a more versatile infield role.