Red Sox Near Playoff Return as Free Agency Looms
The Boston Red Sox are on the verge of their first postseason berth in four years, but free agency is already creeping into focus.
Third baseman Alex Bregman, who has quickly become a seamless fit in Boston despite missing 40 games with a quad injury and enduring a September slump, may soon be back on the open market.
Bregman’s Contract and Opt-Outs
Bregman signed a three-year, $120 million contract in February that includes opt-outs after each of the first two seasons.
After the Houston Astros’ qualifying offer dampened his market last winter, he’s now expected to test free agency this November in pursuit of a longer, more lucrative deal.
A Key Leader Boston Wants to Keep
Since arriving, Bregman has emerged as both a clubhouse leader and one of the team’s most productive players, making him a top priority for the Red Sox.
However, Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley believes Boston won’t go far enough to meet the length of contract Bregman is seeking.
Analyst’s Prediction: Tigers Land Bregman
“It’s tricky to tell what these recent struggles might do to his market—if he even bothers to have one,” Buckley wrote. “If he wanted to extend his stay, he can, but if he’s aiming for a longer, more lucrative contract, he might have to look elsewhere.
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” Buckley predicts Bregman will opt out and sign a five-year deal with the Detroit Tigers—a team that offered him a long-term contract last offseason and is managed by his former Houston skipper, A.J. Hinch.
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Tigers’ Third-Base Void and Late-Season Collapse
Detroit enters Thursday on an eight-game losing streak and still lacks a long-term answer at third base, making Bregman an appealing target.
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For now, the Red Sox can stay focused on their playoff push, but fans across New England will be holding their breath, hoping Bregman’s stay in Boston extends beyond just one season.
