Miggy hints that Tigers have 1 more year of contention left

The Detroit Tigers are entering a crossroads, and All-Star first baseman Miguel Cabrera is well aware.

After failing to reach the postseason in each of the last two years, the Tigers entered the winter looking to sell. General manager Al Avila proclaimed that the club wanted to get younger and cut payroll, but neither happened and the Tigers enter the spring with virtually the same team from a season ago.

Cabrera was among those listed in trade rumors, and despite saying he'd be open to a move if it worked out for the best interests of the club, he said he's happy that the roster wasn't blown up.

"That's great because we've got a chance to play one more year together," Cabrera told reporters, according to Chris McCosky of the Detroit News. "We know what we've got here. We know we didn't go to the playoffs the last two years, but I think if we stay together, if we stay healthy, we've got a chance to compete every day."

The Tigers enter the year as one of the most intriguing teams in the majors. They're still loaded with veteran talent - Cabrera, Justin Verlander, Jordan Zimmermann, Justin Upton, Victor Martinez - and could at least challenge for a wild-card spot if things go right.

The window, however, is closing quickly.

The Tigers could be major sellers at the deadline if things go wrong, and two soon-to-be free agents in Ian Kinsler and J.D. Martinez will likely be the first ones dealt.

Cabrera hinted that the Tigers need to have a strong season in 2017 before their titles hopes are over.

"I don't know," Cabrera said when asked if the team's window to win is closing. "J.D. Martinez is going to be a free agent. A lot of people are going to be a free agent. Ian Kinsler's going to be a free agent. I think it's like, 'Let's make one more shot. We have a chance to give it one more shot.' We'll see what happens."