As Alex Bregman prepares to enter free agency for the first time in his career, the two-time All-Star finds himself in a unique position. While he’s no longer the MVP-caliber player who mashed 41 home runs and posted a 1.015 OPS in 2019, Bregman remains a highly productive and consistent performer. With a 4.1 WAR, 26 home runs, and strong defensive metrics in 2024, the 30-year-old has solidified his reputation as a reliable cornerstone for any lineup. But where will he land?
Here are the three most compelling destinations for Bregman based on roster needs, financial capabilities, and fit.
Boston Red Sox
The Boston Red Sox have the need and the resources to make a strong push for Alex Bregman. After several seasons of underwhelming results, Boston appears poised to make a big splash in free agency. Bregman fits the bill as a right-handed power bat that would complement their lineup perfectly.
Fenway Park’s famed Green Monster has long favored right-handed hitters, and Bregman’s ability to drive the ball to all fields makes him an ideal fit for the ballpark. Boston’s lineup in 2024 leaned heavily on left-handed bats, creating a strategic imbalance that Bregman could help rectify. The New York Post’s Jon Heyman reported, “The Red Sox inquired and could be a fit for Bregman if they move Rafael Devers to first base.”
This positional adjustment could improve Boston’s overall infield defense while keeping both Devers and Bregman in the lineup. The potential departure of Tyler O’Neill in free agency further amplifies the Red Sox's need for a player like Bregman, who offers the postseason pedigree and leadership Boston has lacked in recent years. As Heyman noted, Bregman “is an alpha dog who plays with an edge, a more talented version of Pedroia.”
Spotrac projects Bregman’s market value at $119 million over four years, a deal well within Boston’s budget. The move would also allow the Red Sox to explore trades for Triston Casas to address their pitching needs, creating a balanced and improved roster. With plenty of money to spend and a clear roster need, Boston should be all-in on Bregman.
Seattle Mariners
The Seattle Mariners missed the postseason in 2024, despite boasting one of the best starting rotations in baseball. Their Achilles’ heel was an anemic offense that ranked 21st in runs scored. If there’s any team desperate enough to overpay for a bat like Alex Bregman, it’s Seattle.
Bregman would instantly bolster a lineup that lacks consistent run production. His career .798 OPS over the past three seasons underscores his reliability, and his defensive metrics (11 defensive runs saved, seven outs above average) would strengthen the Mariners' infield.
However, luring Bregman to Seattle won’t be easy. T-Mobile Park is notorious for being one of the most pitcher-friendly stadiums in the league, which might deter a hitter like Bregman. That said, the Mariners have the financial flexibility to make an offer Bregman can’t refuse. Seattle might need to provide “hazard pay” to convince Bregman to play 81 games a year in such a challenging environment.
With Randy Arozarena already in the fold, adding Bregman would give Seattle another proven bat to complement their rotation. President of Baseball Operations Jerry Dipoto has shown a willingness to make aggressive moves, and signing Bregman could be the offensive upgrade Seattle needs to compete in the AL West.
New York Yankees
The New York Yankees and Alex Bregman might seem like an odd pairing, given the contentious history between the Yankees and Bregman’s former team, the Houston Astros. But if the Yankees can put the past behind them, Bregman makes a lot of sense as their next third baseman.
With Gleyber Torres potentially leaving in free agency and Jazz Chisholm Jr. likely shifting back to second base, the Yankees have a clear opening at the hot corner. Bregman’s proven ability to handle the pressures of October baseball—his 19 career postseason home runs rank sixth all-time—would be invaluable in the Bronx.
Financially, the Yankees' pursuit of Bregman hinges on whether they can secure Juan Soto to a mega-deal reportedly worth more than $500 million. If Soto signs elsewhere, pivoting to Bregman as a more affordable option makes sense. However, it’s worth noting that New York’s payroll already carries significant commitments, and they may be hesitant to invest heavily in Bregman if Soto is in play.
Still, the Yankees are known for their willingness to spend when the stakes are high. As one of the most prominent free agents available, Bregman offers the Yankees a chance to upgrade their lineup and defensive stability at third base.
Buyer Beware: Bregman’s offensive decline
While Bregman remains a valuable player, there are red flags to consider. His walk rate plummeted to 6.9% in 2024, a stark decline from his 11% average from 2018-2023. His .315 on-base percentage in 2024 was also the lowest since his rookie season, and his increased chase rate (23.6%) suggests a more aggressive approach at the plate, potentially at the cost of consistency.
That said, Bregman’s defensive reliability and postseason track record make him a worthwhile investment for teams in need of veteran leadership and offensive stability.
Alex Bregman’s free agency will be one of the most intriguing storylines this offseason. The Red Sox, Mariners, and Yankees all present compelling cases as landing spots, with Boston leading the pack due to its roster needs and financial flexibility. Wherever Bregman ends up, his combination of experience, production, and leadership will make him a significant addition to any lineup.
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