Tigers agree to long term contract with top prospect Keith

*Photo from ESPN*

   It's a big day in the motor city. The Detroit Tigers and INF Colt Keith have agreed to a 6 year, $28.64 million contract, according to an announcement from the team.

   Keith's contract has a $2 million signing bonus along with a $10 million team option for 2030, a $13 million team option for 2031, and a $15 million team option for 2032. With incentives included as well, the deal could max out at 9 years and $82 million.

   Detroit president of baseball operations Scott Harris said in a statement that "This is a very exciting day for the Detroit Tigers, Colt, his family, and our fans. Colt has done everything we’ve asked of him during his young career, improving all facets of his game and asserting himself as one of the sport’s most promising young players. This contract demonstrates our faith in Colt and this organization’s commitment to acquire, develop and retain young talent."

   The deal is a big one for both the Tigers and Keith. Ranked the second best prospect in the Tigers system and 22nd in all of baseball, Keith signs the contract before having played a single game in the majors. This deal is the largest signed by a Tigers player before making his major league debut.

   Keith had another strong year in the upper minors in 2023 after a good 2022 in High A. Combined between Double A Erie and Triple A Toledo, Keith had a .306/.380/.552 slash line with 38 doubles, 27 home runs, and 101 RBI's in 126 games.

   In a statement, Keith said "I couldn’t be more excited to reach this agreement, securing my place in this organization for years to come. Since being drafted in 2020, all the coaches and staff have been invaluable in helping me and my teammates grow on and off the field. There’s a reason I felt strongly about making a long-term commitment to be here, and being surrounded by incredibly talented teammates and coaches is a big part of that."

   Chosen by the Tigers in the 5th round of the 2020 draft, Keith has a strong chance to be the Tigers starting second baseman come opening day on March 28 against the Chicago White Sox.