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The Detroit Tigers have expressed serious interest in signing free-agent outfielder Cody Ross, according to ESPN's Jim Bowden. Other interested teams include the Philadelphia Phillies, Boston Red Sox, and Seattle Mariners. But the Atlanta Braves, New York Mets, and Cleveland Indians have also been involved.
Because demand is so high for an outfielder with some power, Ross is likely to get something close to the three-year $25-million deal that he and his agent are asking for. In 2012, Ross slugged 22 home runs and 81 RBI in 130 games for the Boston Red Sox. At just $3 million, he was a bargain.
Although this was considered a breakout year for Ross, the numbers are not unprecedented. In 2008 and 2009, Ross hit 22 and 24 homers for the Marlins. Still, questions have been raised about the wisdom of a three-year deal since Ross turns 32 in December and remains somewhat unproven.
Ross began his career with the Tigers in 2003, but he only played in six games for Detroit. Rob Rogacki at Bless You Boys feels that Ross would be a good addition for the Tigers. Click here to read why.