MLB Trade Rumors: 3 Top Free Agent Suitors for Alex Bregman (inc. 2 Red Sox AL Rivals)


Alex Bregman made the expected move on Wednesday of confirming that he is opting out of his three-year deal with the Boston Red Sox to hit free agency this winter. After a year in which he established himself as a valued team leader, and put up his best numbers on a per-game basis in three years, Bregman has earned himself more than the $80 million he had left on his contract. 

The Red Sox will no doubt do everything in their power to re-sign Bregman for a longer term, but there will be other teams lurking, throwing big bags of cash at the three-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion. 

At the top of the list are two Red Sox rivals who are top contenders in the American League. 

Toronto Blue Jays a potential fit for Alex Bregman in free agency

The big elephant in the Blue Jays clubhouse as they continue their ALCS against the Seattle Mariners is the fact that shortstop Bo Bichette may have played his last game for the franchise. Bichette was left off the Jays' Championship Series roster as his recovery from a knee sprain hasn't progressed to the point where he can run the bases. 

It would be a huge loss for Toronto if Bichette moves on in free agency, but they do have plenty of depth from their cast of 'glue guys' who could slide into his spot. Either Andres Gimenez or Ernie Clement would be fine replacements (certainly, defensively) at short. But if the Jays are looking to replace the clout of Bichette at the plate, Bregman would be a nice target. He would take over at third, and turn Addison Barger into more of an outfield option. 

Detroit Tigers will pursue Bregman for 2nd straight offseason

The Tigers made a big run at Bregman last offseason, and his connection with Tigers manager AJ Hinch (they won a World Series together in Houston) remains strong. In addition, Detroit has a serious need to fill at third base, and in the leadership department. However, the fact that he turned down a six-year, $171.5 million guarantee from the Tigers last winter would seem to work against them.

Boston Red Sox are still the frontrunners to sign Bregman in free agency

The BoSox still remain the most logical fit for Bregman, as proven out by the past seven months. After trading Rafael Devers, Boston desperately needs to keep Bregman at third. He played a significant role in helping the team to its first playoff berth since 2021, and posted an OPS (.821) and OPS+ (128) that topped each of his previous two seasons in Houston. His 18 home runs in 114 games played put him on pace for a 25+ home run campaign, while his .273 batting mark was his best in six years. 

Chris Cotillo writes in MassLive, "Bregman is likely heartened by the fact he was able to change organizations for the first time in a decade and not only fit in seamlessly to a new culture, but still produce. But as the father of two young boys who was a major part of the Houston community during his nine years with the Astros, Bregman clearly wants stability."

Does he feel that Beantown provides that stability?

Photo: © Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images