It’s another day, another drama in the Bronx. But this time it revolves around the Yankees’ biggest rival, the Boston Red Sox. Any guesses why? Well, with a glaring need to fix the third base problem, the Pinstripes may get to steal a top Red Sox star. Although they did not acknowledge the need during free agency or through trade, the decision may finally change, and they can opt for one, according to MLB insider Jim Bowden.
Alex Bregman is currently ranked in the second position from the top as one of the most sought-after free agents, according to Bowden of The Athletic. Given that they previously went into spring training searching for answers at third base without any luck, Bregman remains a potential target for the Yankees at the moment.
Shedding light on the top MLB free agents for the 2025-2026 offseason, Bowden wrote, “Bregman, who is making $40 million this year and signed for two more years at that rate, will likely opt out of his deal. His free-agent market should be even more robust than last offseason, with the Red Sox joined by the Yankees, Tigers, Astros, Phillies and even the Dodgers; he would be an upgrade for all of them at the hot corner.”
Bregman signed with the Red Sox on a three-year, $120 million deal that involved an opt-out clause. It won’t be shocking if he opts out and the Yankees sign him, considering his performance this season. And, given that the Red Sox and Yankees are among the greatest rivals in baseball history, it will rank among the most prominent news stories. However, will he be a good bet for the Yankees?
Praising the Red Sox star, Bowden further added, “He quickly became the team leader in Boston and is having his best offensive season in years with a .386 on-base percentage, 111 homers and 17 doubles.”
Since the Yankees do not have enough funds after signing Max Fried for an eight-year, $218 million deal, it is quite likely that they land the 31-year-old once the season completes. But will that be the right call?
Should the Yankees go for Alex Bregman?
Well, if you remember, the New York Yankees suffered a poor fate after they were eliminated by the Houston Astros in the ALCS during the 2019 playoffs. The Astros were caught stealing signs to help them win the game, and the Yankees fans were very upset about it.
When the Astros visited the Bronx in 2021, their former star Alex Bregman, Carlos Correa, and Jose Altuve were met with a chorus of jeers, as was to be expected.
However, it’s been four years now and the Yankees have a job in hand. With Aaron Judge already on the team, the addition of Alex Bregman could be a massive bet. Not only would it enhance their World Series aspirations, but it would also resolve their third base problem.
This season, Alex Bregman has posted 11 home runs and 35 RBIs at a .297 average, with a .381 OBP and a .935 OPS. However, the Yankees are also targeting Nolan Arenado of the St. Louis Cardinals, who may also find a way into their roster.
But the Yankees fans still have a negative impression of the Houston Astros, especially after the sign-stealing scandal. Due to that, Bregman might turn out to be an unattractive option for the Pinstripes. However, the idea of stealing him from the Red Sox is definitely enticing, although the fans might not welcome him with open arms.
Do you think the Yankees should go for Bregman? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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