3 Players the Tigers Need to Sign Once MLB Lifts Freeze

The Detroit Tigers were projected to once again be one of the worst teams in the league, but they have a chance to actually make some noise in the AL Central now that the MLB has all but confirmed that 60 games will be played in 2020.

Ron Gardenhire and the Tigers should use this shortened season as a reason to make some aggressive moves on the free agent market once the MLB's freeze on transactions is lifted. These three unemployed players could end up at Comerica Park by the end of the month.

3. RP Tony Sipp

Washington Nationals lefty Tony Sipp / Scott Taetsch/Getty Images

37-year-old left-handed relievers aren't exactly considered super desirable, but Sipp, a contributor on Astros and Nationals teams that ended the season as champions over the last few seasons, could be a perfect fit for the Tigers. Their bullpen is a complete mess at the moment, and Sipp would instantly be a veteran setup guy who will be in for a featured role in a shortened season that will place more of an emphasis on relief pitching. Joe Jimenez doesn't exactly have a stranglehold on the closer job, either.

2. OF Austin Jackson

Detroit Tigers outfielder Austin Jackson / Joe Robbins/Getty Images

Jackson was the big prize that came back to Detroit in the deal that sent Curtis Granderson to the Yankees. He was a near Rookie of the Year, .300 hitter, and AL triples champion with the Tigers before bouncing around the MLB with the Mariners, Indians and Giants, to name a few. Jackson didn't play in 2019, but has stated he wants one last shot in 2020. The Tigers adding him to a lackluster outfield mix would give them experience and speed at the top of their lineup.

1. SS Tim Beckham

Seattle Mariners infielder Tim Beckham / Stephen Brashear/Getty Images

A former No. 1 overall pick, Beckham has started to carve out a respectable career for himself, even launching 15 home runs in 88 games with the Seattle Mariners last season. While Beckham did pick up a suspension for performance-enhancing drugs, his power and speed could convince Detroit to offer him a multi-year deal to be their shortstop. Doing so would give them a solid leadoff hitter and enable the Tigers to return Niko Goodrum to his preferred utility role.