This offseason, the Boston Red Sox have been linked to Alex Bregman, who has yet to sign.
Bregman, unlike other free agent stars, has waited out the market, possibly to sign the final rich, long-term contract of his MLB career.
And if that is what Bregman wants, as all reports indicate, it does not appear like he will get it from the Red Sox.
According to The Boston Globe’s Alex Speier, the Red Sox have had conversations with Bregman throughout the winter and are seeking to get the two-time World Series champion on a shorter-term deal. Speier, citing various sources, stated that the Red Sox were interested in a four-year deal for the veteran third baseman.
Bregman’s age (he turns 31 at the end of March) and drop in output this season are likely reasons why the Red Sox do not want to make a large financial commitment to him. Boston boasts highly-rated prospect Kristian Campbell, who can play second or third base and is on the verge of making the big leagues.
Other teams appear to be willing to back up Bregman’s truck, however. According to Ari Alexander of KPRC2 in Houston, the Astros are still offering Bregman a six-year, $156 million contract, despite his first rejection. According to Alexander, “at least three teams have offered Bregman a deal of five years or longer this offseason.”
The Red Sox may be one of those clubs, or not. However, if they are not, they will most likely have to move on from their current position in terms of a contract offer if they want Bregman to wear the Red Sox shirt. Alternatively, Alex Cora’s strong relationship with Bregman may entice him to accept Boston’s offer.
