In a significant move that has the baseball world buzzing, third baseman Alex Bregman has struck a deal with the Chicago Cubs, signing a five-year contract worth $175 million. This marks a notable moment for Bregman, a three-time All-Star, as he joins the Cubs after they previously fell short in their attempts to sign him during last year’s free agency.
As Bregman approaches his 32nd birthday on March 30, he made the bold decision to opt out of a lucrative $40 million player option with the Boston Red Sox. This choice allowed him to explore the free agent market again, following his debut in the offseason just a year prior. Despite a disappointing outcome for the Cubs in 2025, they recognized Bregman’s immense talent and offered him a staggering club-record salary of $35 million per year to secure his services.
Notably, this agreement includes no opt-outs and comes with a full no-trade clause, providing Bregman with significant security moving forward.
Last season, Bregman started strong with the Red Sox, boasting impressive statistics of .299/.385/.553 along with 11 home runs and 35 RBIs, before a quad injury sidelined him from May 24 until July 11. Beyond his on-field performance, he was celebrated for his leadership qualities, serving as a crucial mentor to a young Red Sox squad that faced elimination in the American League Wild Card series against the New York Yankees.
Even though the Cubs retained all four infielders from their successful 92-win season, which placed them second in the National League Central, they ramped up their efforts to bring Bregman into the fold. This acquisition represents one of the most substantial contracts in the franchise's history.
To accommodate Bregman’s arrival, the Cubs are contemplating possible trades involving either Gold Glove-winning second baseman Nico Hoerner or third baseman Matt Shaw. Hoerner is set to become a free agent after this season, while Shaw might command a more significant return due to his extended club control, potentially making him a valuable trade asset. Alternatively, it’s also feasible that the Cubs could retain both players alongside Bregman.
The Cubs’ interest in Bregman stems not only from his powerful offensive style, which aligns well with Wrigley Field's dimensions, but also from his exceptional leadership skills. As the team aims to stay competitive in a highly challenging National League landscape, they are looking to Bregman—renowned for his sharp baseball acumen, interpersonal skills, and unwavering work ethic—to help guide them through the coming seasons.
Recently, the Cubs further bolstered their roster by trading for right-hander Edward Cabrera, parting ways with top outfield prospect Owen Caissie. This move strengthens their rotation, which, while lacking an ace, boasts numerous promising arms. With key players like Hoerner, outfielders Seiya Suzuki and Ian Happ, and starters Shota Imanaga and Jameson Taillon all approaching free agency, Bregman and shortstop Dansby Swanson—who is under contract through 2029—are currently the only long-term commitments on the Cubs' payroll.
While Bregman’s peak performance came in 2019 when he finished as the runner-up for the AL MVP award, he continues to serve as a reliable power threat in the lineup. After rejecting Boston's qualifying offer of $22.025 million, Bregman entered free agency eager to land the long-term contract that eluded him the previous winter. As a result of his signing with the Cubs, the Red Sox will receive a compensatory draft pick after the fourth round.
After spending nine seasons with the Houston Astros, who selected him second overall in the 2015 draft, Bregman had a late start at Red Sox camp last year. Nevertheless, he quickly made an impact on both the field and among the influx of talented young players joining the Boston organization from the minors. By the end of the season, his stats reflected a solid performance of .273/.360/.462 with 18 home runs and 62 RBIs across 114 games.
Throughout his decade-long career, Bregman has maintained a strong offensive presence, achieving a slash line of .272/.365/.481, hitting 209 home runs and driving in 725 RBIs. He has also celebrated two World Series championships and made seven consecutive appearances in the AL Championship Series. During his tenure with the Astros, Bregman accumulated an impressive 34.2 FanGraphs wins above replacement, ranking eighth among all position players in the league.
