Alex Bregman Will Opt Out Of Red Sox Contract
Alex Bregman intends to exercise his opt-out clause in his contract with teh Boston Red Sox, becoming a free agent this offseason, according to a report from Jon Heyman of the New York Post. the decision comes after Bregman signed a five-year, $103.5 million deal with Boston in December 2023, which included the opt-out after one season.
Bregman’s anticipated move to free agency marks a important advancement for both the Red Sox and the broader market for third basemen. The 29-year-old proved a valuable addition to Boston, hitting .267 with 21 home runs and 67 RBIs in 107 games. Prior to joining the Red Sox, Bregman spent his entire seven-year MLB career with the Houston Astros, where he was a key component of their 2017 World Series championship team and a two-time All-Star.
The Red Sox had previously explored a long-term extension with Bregman, but he reportedly countered a $171.5 million proposal from the Detroit Tigers late in the offseason with a request in the $180 million range before ultimately opting for the one-year deal with Boston at a higher annual rate.
Boston’s financial situation is evolving. While the team did not exceed the luxury tax threshold in 2024, they are projected to exceed the $241 million threshold for 2025 by several million dollars, according to RosterResource. Potential salary relief could come from the non-tender of Steven Matz’s $12.5 million salary, and the possible decline of Lucas Giolito’s $19 million mutual option, contingent on the severity of his recent elbow issue. Liam Hendriks’ $12 million mutual option is also likely to be declined following ulnar nerve transposition surgery in September.
A reunion with the Red Sox remains a possibility, especially after the team traded Rafael Devers to the San Francisco giants in June. Though, other teams are expected to pursue Bregman in free agency. The Tigers and Chicago Cubs both showed interest last winter, though the Cubs reportedly sought only a short-term deal.The Tigers, whose third basemen collectively ranked 26th in MLB with a 76 wRC+, could be particularly motivated to add a player of Bregman’s caliber. Should bregman depart, boston could turn to prospects like Marcelo Mayer or explore free agency options such as Eugenio Suarez.
