In a surprising move, the Detroit Tigers have made an unconventional bet on a young player with no major-league experience. The team recently announced a lucrative six-year contract with 22-year-old Colt Keith, guaranteeing the talented infield prospect an impressive sum of $28,642,500.
What sets this deal apart is the inclusion of three team options, potentially extending the contract to a total of nine seasons. With these options, Keith's contract could be worth a staggering $64 million. If certain escalators are met, the value could soar even higher to an impressive $82 million over the course of nine years.
Colt Keith, hailing from Zanesville, Ohio, is a left-handed-hitting third baseman and second baseman. He was a fifth-round pick in the 2020 amateur draft, having attended Biloxi High School in Mississippi. MLB.com currently ranks Keith as the 22nd top prospect in the big leagues.
During the 2021 season, Keith showcased his skills and potential in the minor leagues. He had an outstanding performance, hitting .325 with 14 home runs and 50 RBIs in 59 games while playing for the Double-A Erie team. As a result of his impressive performance, Keith was promoted to Triple-A Toledo on June 26, where he continued to excel, batting .287 with 13 home runs and 51 RBIs in 67 games.
As part of the agreement, Keith will receive a substantial $2 million signing bonus. His annual salaries will gradually increase over the contract's duration, starting at $2.5 million in 2024 and culminating in $5 million per year in 2028 and 2029. Furthermore, the Tigers have included several team options in the deal, providing flexibility for both the team and the player in the future. The options could see Keith's contract extended through the 2032 season.
It's worth noting that this contract with Colt Keith follows a recent trend in baseball, as the Milwaukee Brewers signed 19-year-old outfielder Jackson Chourio to an $82 million, eight-year contract last month. Chourio's deal currently holds the record for the largest contract given to a prospect with no major-league service.
The Detroit Tigers' decision to invest in young and promising talent like Colt Keith is a testament to their commitment to rebuilding and revitalizing the team. With seven consecutive losing seasons and a prolonged drought in terms of World Series victories, the Tigers are eager to return to their glory days. Their last World Series victory dates back to 1984, and their last American League pennant was earned in 2012.
Detroit baseball fans are eagerly watching as the Tigers make bold moves in their quest to turn the franchise around. Only time will tell if Colt Keith lives up to his potential and proves that this sizable investment was a wise one. In the meantime, the Tigers organization remains hopeful that this young prospect will play a crucial role in their future success.
Reporting by The Associated Press has shed light on this exciting development in the baseball world. Stay connected with FOX Sports to receive personalized newsletters and get the latest updates on teams, leagues, and players straight to your inbox.
