Tigers extend qualifying offers to Scherzer, Martinez
The Detroit Tigers took the first step in retaining two of their superstars Friday by extending qualifying offers to pitcher Max Scherzer and designated hitter Victor Martinez.
Both Scherzer and Martinez are expected to turn down the $15.3-million offers in hopes of landing a more lucrative long-term deal. No player has accepted a qualifying offer in its two-year history.
The move ensures the Tigers draft-pick compensation should either player sign with another team this winter.
Scherzer, 30, reportedly rejected a six-year, $144-million contract from the Tigers prior to the season. Detroit general manager Dave Dombrowski said last week Scherzer's representative made it clear he intends to test free agency.
The hard-throwing right-hander is expected to pursue a deal in the neighborhood of Zack Greinke's six-year, $159-million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2013.
Scherzer, the 2013 American League Cy Young winner, recorded his second-straight 200-inning season this year and had the league's third-highest strikeout rate.
Martinez, meanwhile, is also looking for a multi-year deal after posting a career-high 32 homers and leading the majors with a .974 OPS. The 35-year-old veteran is reportedly seeking a four-year contract.
The Tigers have previously expressed a desire to re-sign both players.