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Tigers sign RHP Jordan Zimmermann to 5-year deal, per report

The Tigers took a major step forward in improving their rotation, signing the 29-year-old Zimmermann to a long-term deal.

Jason Getz-USA TODAY Sports

The Detroit Tigers and former Washington Nationals starting pitcher Jordan Zimmermann have reached a contract agreement, according to CBS Sports' Jon Heyman. The deal is pending a physical. Zimmermann, one of the top pitchers on the free agent market this offseason, was sought after by many clubs, including the Dodgers and Cubs.

The deal is reported to be five years and "around" $110 million, according to Fox Sports' Jon Paul Morosi and does not include a team or vesting option at the end. Zimmermann made $16.5 million with the Nationals in 2015 in what was his worst season in five years. The right-hander will only be 34 years old by the time his contract with the Tigers ends.

Zimmermann is a major addition to a starting rotation that was among the worst in baseball last season. Zimmermann allowed a 3.66 ERA and 3.75 FIP in 201 2/3 innings for the Nationals last season, and owns a 3.32 ERA and 3.40 FIP in seven seasons, all spent in Washington.

Zimmermann's addition gives the Tigers three pitchers atop their rotation, along with Justin Verlander and Anibal Sanchez. Daniel Norris is believed to be among the leaders for a fourth spot in the rotation, with a fifth starter still up in the air.

By acquiring Zimmermann, Detroit will be giving up their second-round pick in the 2016 MLB Draft. However, the team's first-round pick is protected as a result of their 74-87 record, which gave them the No. 9 overall pick in the draft.