Walker Buehler Already Recruiting Top Free Agents to the Red Sox

The Boston Red Sox had a busy offseason, with chief baseball officer Craig Breslow being one of the most active decision-makers in the trade market and free agency. Despite additions to the roster, the apple of Breslow's eye remains free-agent third baseman Alex Bregman.

Bregman is arguably the best player left on the market and how he is still available is rather puzzling. His contract demands could be a reason for that. The star slugger hit .260/.315/.453 with 26 home runs and 75 RBI in 2024 but looks unlikely to return to the Houston Astros.

The Red Sox are facing real competition to sign the right-handed bat, most notably from the Tigers. So, Boston is getting all the help they can on the recruiting front. Per Greg Dudek of NESN, the newest signing of the Red Sox, Walker Buehler has been in Bregman's ear all winter since joining the club.

"I have certainly made a pitch all over the place for him to come to Boston. He and I have been buddies for a long time. We played on Team USA together a little bit in college."

- Walker Buehler on Alex Bregman

Buehler agreed to a one-year, $21 million deal with the Red Sox in December after winning the World Series with the LA Dodgers. The two-time All-Star pitcher reportedly has such a close friendship with Bregman that they own a horse together.

The Red Sox are desperately trying to add a right-handed bat to balance out their lefty-heavy roster. They showed interest in Teoscar Hernandez, but he decided to remain in Los Angeles. Since then, Bregman has been at the top of the list of free agents, while Cardinals third baseman Nolan Arenado remains an option as a trade candidate.

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