The Detroit Tigers rumors have been all over the map this offseason, however, with little time to go before Spring Training officially begins, could the Tigers strike some late free agency gold? The players are out there, but the question is, will the Tigers make a move?

Cobb, Walker perfect fits

As recently as 2014, the Tigers had one of the most feared rotations in all of baseball. While stars like Justin Verlander, Rick Porcello, David Price, and Max Scherzer are long in the rearview mirror, Detroit’s current staff may not be as bad as people think - that is if they can land a free agent like Alex Cobb.

The longtime Tampa Bay Ray is one of the best pitchers still on the open market and compared to JV, Picky P, Price, and Scherzer, this kid won’t break the bank.

With a career record of 58-43 with Tampa Bay and a salary of only $4 million last season, the Tigers could probably sew him up on a four or five-year deal between $35-45 million. If Cobb pitched half as good as he did with the Rays, this pick-up would be a steal for Detroit. Adding Cobb to a rotation with Fulmer, Zimmermann and Daniel Norris would really solidify the staff. Not to mention if Mathew Boyd can provide eight to 12 wins this season. Detroit should definitely make a bid for this kid.

Another strong free agent still waiting for a home is the second baseman, Neil Walker.

The switch-hitting second baseman would not only provide a great addition to the lineup, he is one of the top fielding second basemen in the league. The only downside could be Walker’s contract, but really it shouldn’t be. Last season Walker made $17 million, but the fact that he is still on the market could work to the Tigers advantage.

Two years, $24-28 million? If they could get Walker to bite on that, they should sign him. Right now, Dixon Machado is penciled in as the Tigers starting second baseman according to the Detroit Free Press. Walker spent last season with the Mets and Brewers.

Coke comeback?

Former Tiger and one-time fan-favorite Phil Coke is attempting a comeback, but this time he won't be the hard-throwing in your face relief man.

Coke is trying to reinvent himself as a knuckleballer. MLB.com indicates that Coke posted a 4.56 ERA in 23 2/3 innings with the Orix Blue Wave of the NPB. This type of move has been successful for many pitchers in the past, including R.A. Dickey and Tim Wakefield. The only difference between those two and Coke is that Coke is making the attempt at a much later phase of his career. The 35-year-old Coke, who was impressive in the Arizona Fall League, is hoping to catch on with a major league squad this season.
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