Tigers Sign Cris Rodriguez for Record Bonus

The Detroit Tigers have made a significant investment in their future by signing 16-year-old Dominican outfielder Cris Rodriguez for a franchise-record $3.2 million during the 2025 international signing period. Rodriguez, ranked No. 4 by Baseball America and MLB Pipeline, is noted for his physicality and power, drawing comparisons to baseball legends Alex Rodriguez and Aaron Judge. His athletic 6-foot-4 frame and raw power have excited the Tigers, who believe he could develop into a major hitting force in their lineup. Despite his potential, scouts acknowledge Rodriguez's need to refine his approach to reduce strikeouts against breaking balls and offspeed pitches. The Tigers expect Rodriguez to play in the Dominican Summer League in 2025 and have high hopes he will be a cornerstone for the franchise, alongside other top prospects like Max Clark. This signing reflects the Tigers' commitment to building a strong future lineup and marks a strategic use of their international bonus pool funds.