Red Sox's Pursuit of Star Free Agent Hits Brick Wall Over Big Issue

The Boston Red Sox have been in pursuit of Alex Bregman this offseason but getting him to sign on the dotted line has proven difficult. Bregman has played the waiting game this winter, connected to many teams but not choosing one as he looks to get paid ahead of the 2025 season.

If Bregman wants money, it shouldn’t be an issue. The two-time World Series champion is one of the top names on the market and whatever team signs him is going to write a hefty check projected to be in the $27 million per season range according to FanGraphs.

But there may be another sticking point that could be the difference between Bregman landing in Boston or somewhere else.

Alex Bregman’s Desire For A Longer Contract Has Slowed Talks With Red Sox

According to The Boston Globe’s Alex Speier, the Red Sox have remained in touch with Bregman but have stated their desire for a short-term contract. While Speier mentions that Boston hasn’t been interested in a deal for over four years, Bregman wants a longer term on his next contract.

The reason is simple. Bregman turns 31 in March, meaning that this could be his last chance to command a big contract. While Ari Alexander of KPRC2 in Houston reports that the Houston Astros still have a six-year, $156 million contract on the table, he also mentions that three other teams have offered Bregman a deal of five years or longer this offseason.

This could be too rich for the Red Sox blood even if Bregman is producing at a high level. The two-time All-Star hit .260/.315/.453 with 26 homers and 75 RBI for the Astros but his defense would be his biggest appeal to Boston with six defensive runs saved at third base last season.

Bregman’s presence would be a massive upgrade over Rafael Devers, who had -9 defensive runs saved last season and has led the majors in errors five times in his eight-year career, and allow the Red Sox to move him to first base. But Boston could still move him without Bregman with Kristian Campbell a potential long-term solution.

Campbell’s potential as Baseball America’s No. 4 overall prospect heading into next season certainly plays a role in how long of a deal the Red Sox are willing to offer Bregman. If the two sides can’t find a compromise, it’s likely Bregman could go somewhere else and Boston will lean into its youth to upgrade the infield next season.

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