Mike Ilitch Opens the Checkbook: Tigers Acquire All-Star Outfielder Justin Upton

Justin Upton

After the Tigers had already put out the word that it could not afford to dish out big bucks for another acquisition, owner Mike Ilitch pulled out the wallet.

The Tigers signed free-agent outfielder Justin Upton on a six-year, $132.75 million contract Monday night, Bob Nightengale of USA Today reports. He posted a .251 average with 26 home runs and 81 RBIs with the Padres last season, according to The Detroit News.

Upton is the three-time All-Star outfielder.