Tigers lock up prospect Colt Keith through 2029, possibly beyond, with long-term extension

Detroit — From Day One, Tigers president Scott Harris said he was more than willing to negotiate contract extensions for top prospects, if the club felt they were worthy.

Tigers No. 2-ranked prospect Colt Keith is apparently worthy.

The Tigers on Sunday signed Keith, a 22-year-old infielder who has yet to make his Major League debut, to a six-year contract extension running through 2029 worth $28.64 million. The deal includes team options through 2032 and bonuses that could take the contract’s value up to $82 million.

“This is a very exciting day for the Detroit Tigers, Colt, his family, and our fans,” Harris said in a statement. “Colt has done everything we’ve asked of him during his young career, improving all facets of his game and asserting himself as one of the sport’s most promising young players.

“This contract demonstrates our faith in Colt and this organization’s commitment to acquire, develop, and retain young talent.”

Keith, drafted in the fifth round in 2020, is ranked as the 22nd-best prospect in baseball by MLB Pipeline and is expected to make the big-league roster out of camp this season. Between Double A and Triple A last season, he slashed .306/.380/.552 with a .932 OPS, 27 homers and 101 RBIs.

Keith is ranked No. 28 by Baseball America, and is The Detroit News' top Tigers prospect for 2024.

“I couldn’t be more excited to reach this agreement, securing my place in this organization for years to come,” Keith said in a statement. “Since being drafted in 2020, all the coaches and staff have been invaluable in helping me and my teammates grow on and off the field. There’s a reason I felt strongly about making a long-term commitment to be here and being surrounded by incredibly talented teammates and coaches is a big part of that.”

Here's the breakdown of the deal:

▶ $2.5 million in 2024 and $3.5 million 2025

▶ $4 million per season in 2026 and 2027

▶ $5 million per season in 2028 and 2029.

The deal also includes a $2 million signing bonus, a $10 million club option for 2030 with a $2.64 million buyout; a $13 million club option for 2031 with a $1 million buyout; and a $15 million club option for 2032 with a $2 million buyout.

“I’d also like to thank my family, fiancé, agent, and friends for their tireless support throughout my life and career,” Keith said. “Without them, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I know this is a big accomplishment, but ultimately my mission is to be the best player possible and help win a World Series championship for Tigers fans everywhere.”

Keith is the first player the Tigers have signed to a long-term extension prior to making his big-league debut. He is expected to compete at both second and third base this spring.

Keith will be added to the 40-man roster. A corresponding move has yet to be announced.

A press conference is expected Monday or Tuesday.

Chris.McCosky@detroitnews.com

@cmccosky