The Detroit News

The Tigers are the most likely landing spot for No. 1 free agent Max Scherzer, in the estimation of ESPN MLB Insider Jim Bowden.

Bowden says the odds of Scherzer returning to Detroit are 2-1.

"By all accounts, Scherzer has enjoyed playing in Detroit and would like to return, and the Tigers obviously feel the same way," Bowden says. "It really just comes down to big business decisions on both sides. (Agent Scott) Boras has a strong relationship with team owner Mike Ilitch and president Dave Dombrowski, which works in the Tigers' favor. However, I expect Scherzer to sign with the highest bidder, and both sides are waiting to see if anyone will beat Detroit's best offer."

That offer – six years and $144 million – was made prior to the start of the 2014 season. It was rejected by Scherzer and Boras.

Bowden gives the Giants the next-best odds of getting Scherzer at 5-1, followed by the Yankees (10-1), Nationals (15-1), Cardinals (20-1), Dodgers (25-1) and Angels (30-1).