It is happening as it was bound to be, and even Alex Bregman couldn’t do much about it. The Houston Astros find themselves one step away from the third baseman each time a new team is rumored. And now that four serious teams are in the mud, maths ain’t mathing.
This February, the free agency market will be rough and scratchy. And in an incomprehensible situation, Bregman still remains unsigned. The Houston Astros have reportedly extended a six-year, $156 million offer, which would equate to a $26 million average annual value. However, Bregman is said to view this as a pay cut compared to his previous deal at $28.5 million annual salaries.
Alex Bregman Reportedly Has Six-Year Offer From Club Other Than Astros https://t.co/L1zbwG16t0 pic.twitter.com/Vux7jTA0aF
— MLB Trade Rumors (@mlbtraderumors) January 31, 2025
His aspirations hover around the $200 million mark, a gap that has contributed to a noticeable stalemate in negotiations. This impasse has opened the door for multiple teams to step into the fray, with clubs like the Cubs, Tigers, Red Sox, and Blue Jays presenting lucrative proposals.
The interest from other teams comes at a crucial juncture. And it matches with the Astros actively seeking alternatives effectively filling out their infield. They are reportedly eyeing acquiring Isaac Paredes and signing Christian Walker. However, speculation remains regarding a possible shift to re-sign Bregman and reinforce the base setup.
Also Read: How Could Alex Bregman Get Direct Benefit From Chicago Cubs Bullpen Acquisition?
Inside Thinks Alex Bregman Could Opt Out After First Year Of Next Contract
While there’s not much time left on the clock for spring training, Alex Bregman is still without a contract. The talented third baseman and two-time All-Star has teams linked with him, but nothing concrete.
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Recent rumors suggest that, even after he signs a new deal, he might opt out after just one year. Adam Weinrib from FanSided pointed out that Bregman could end up struggling to find teams interested in him when he hits the free-agent market again next winter.
"My gut is he comes back, he's the stick that stirs their drink inside that clubhouse."
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) January 31, 2025
– Geoff Blum on Alex Bregman pic.twitter.com/RM8X4WquYv
As January wraps up, Bregman’s market hasn’t picked up much steam. The Houston Astros, who had initially considered pursuing Jorge Polanco, seem to be increasing their efforts to bring Bregman back. While it looks like a reunion with the Astros could be on the horizon, there’s still a lot of uncertainty about where he will land. This situation makes it tricky for Bregman because even if he gets a contract, he may not have the long-term stability he’s hoping for.
If Bregman does choose to opt-out after his first season, he might find himself facing the same issues he’s encountering now. Last season, he posted a decent .260 batting average with 26 home runs and 75 RBIs. However, this performance may not guarantee him a strong market next offseason.
