With MLB Spring Training just days away, the top free agent remains available. Former Houston Astros third baseman Bregman is still unsigned as the offseason nears its end, but the race to sign him is entering its final stage.
The race to sign Alex Bregman may soon come to a close. According to ESPN’s Buster Olney, Bregman is “likely” to sign in the near future, with the Astros, Red Sox, Tigers, and Cubs all offering multiyear deals. Bregman, who has spent his entire career with Houston, has won two World Series titles with the team.
All four teams have been among the busiest this offseason. The Cubs made a splash by acquiring star outfielder Kyle Tucker, while the Tigers bolstered their roster by signing infielder Gleyber Torres and starting pitcher Jack Flaherty. The Red Sox strengthened their rotation by trading for Garrett Crochet and signing Walker Buehler.
The Astros are in a unique position to potentially bring Bregman back. They have already filled their infield by trading for Isaac Paredes at third base and signing Christian Walker at first. However, Houston has made it clear that if Bregman returns, they are open to shifting Jose Altuve to left field and playing Bregman at second base.
Bregman would be a valuable addition to almost any team. The 31-year-old infielder is among the best offensive third basemen and is also a solid defender. Last season with the Astros, he batted .260 with 26 home runs and recorded a 118 wRC+.
Despite his strong production, concerns about his age and recent inconsistency have made teams hesitant to offer a long-term deal, which has contributed to his lingering free agency. The Astros previously extended a six-year, $156 million offer, but it’s unclear what other teams have put on the table.
Still, Bregman is expected to sign soon, and it remains to be seen whether he will return to Houston or start fresh with a new team in 2025.
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