(670 The Score) As third baseman Alex Bregman’s free agency continues with his destination unknown, there could be a union with the Cubs down the road if he’s willing to accept a shorter-term contract.
To date, Bregman has been seeking a long-term deal in the neighborhood of $25 million to $30 million annually. Bregman previously turned down a six-year, $156-million deal from the Astros, for whom he has played his first nine MLB seasons. Since then, the Yankees, Red Sox, Tigers and Mariners have all kicked the tires regarding a long-term deal for Bregman, but there hasn’t been a match yet as the start of spring training looms in a month.
Bregman, who will turn 31 in late March, wanted to stay in Houston, according to sources, with a $200-million contract being his goal. That didn't come to fruition.
Recently, powerful agent Scott Boras, who represents Bregman, had casual discussions with the Cubs, who aren’t interested in a long-term contract. For Bregman, the framework of a potential deal with the Cubs could look like a three-year contract with opt-outs after each of the first two seasons.
The Cubs signed outfielder Cody Bellinger to a similar contract before the 2024 season, then traded him to the Yankees in December after he chose to opt in to the second season of a three-year deal.
Right-hander Jack Flaherty and outfielder Anthony Santander are two high-profile free agents who are open to shorter-term deals with high average annual values, Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic recently reported. Bregman could find himself in a similar situation.
Bregman is a two-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion. He hit .260 with 26 homers, 75 RBIs and a .768 OPS in 145 games for Houston last season. Bregman has a career .858 OPS and 132 OPS+.
“The team that signs him gets a complete player and winner,” an American League executive said. “The question of how long to pay him for has baffled other clubs. They know they are getting a solid pro and all-around great teammate.”
Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine.