The Tigers took their swing at landing the biggest free agent left on the market, but their offer ultimately fell short for reasons that likely went beyond the total money.

Bregman reportedly agreed to a three-year, $120 million contract with the Red Sox on Wednesday, ending the most high-profile free agency in the sport.

Detroit was a logical potential destination for Bregman, the two-time All-Star and MVP finalist with the Astros who could have stepped into the Tigers’ lineup at third base and joined a young team fresh off of a playoff appearance.

But Bregman won’t be reuniting with A.J. Hinch and trying to get the Tigers back into the postseason in 2025. And his decision may have come down to more than just the total money offered by the Tigers and Red Sox.

The Tigers offered Bregman a six-year, $171 million contract – a larger total contract figure than the Red Sox and closer to the true megadeal that he had been seeking. But Bregman instead chose an option that offered more flexibility and could allow him to search for a long-term megadeal again in less than a year – plus a higher annual value at $40 million per season.

The Red Sox offer reportedly includes Bregman opt-out options after both Year 1 and Year 2 of the contract. That means a good 2025 season in hitter-friendly Fenway Park could put Bregman in better position to land a $200 million contract next offseason.

The Tigers, meanwhile, didn’t offer an opt-out until after Year 2 of their offer, providing more guaranteed money but less flexibility.

So while Detroit may have lost the 2025 Bregman sweepstakes, they may have another shot at him for 2026.