The New York Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays, Boston Red Sox, and New York Mets are no strangers to intense free-agent bidding wars, having previously competed for Juan Soto, who ultimately chose the Mets. Now, these four teams, along with the Houston Astros and Detroit Tigers, are reportedly in another heated competition.
This time, they’re vying for free-agent infielder Alex Bregman, with Jon Heyman of the New York Post projecting him to sign a $170 million deal this offseason. According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, these six teams are all seen as strong contenders for Bregman’s services.
Feinsand notes, “The Yankees are also believed to have interest in both players (Bregman and Nolan Arenado), either of whom would take over at third base, shifting Jazz Chisholm Jr. to second.” The Red Sox, Mets, Tigers, and Blue Jays are also in the mix to varying degrees.
The Bregman sweepstakes is shaping up to be an intriguing race, as any of these teams can afford his asking price of $170 million to $200 million. The decision will likely depend on which team views him as the best investment.
Meanwhile, the Mets, Astros, and Red Sox are also contenders for St. Louis Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado, who would be a more affordable and less risky option compared to Bregman. For the Yankees, however, Bregman seems to be the top target for third base. Given the current landscape, the Yankees may be considered the favorites to sign Bregman, a move that would have been unexpected just a few seasons ago.