Has the Alex Bregman era in Houston finally run its course? It sure looks that way. What once seemed like a priority for the Astros this offseason has now hit a standstill, with contract talks reportedly “stalled.” Meanwhile, Houston has started to explore other options, and the signs are hard to ignore. The team recently traded for Isaac Paredes from the Cubs and added Christian Walker.
If that’s not a signal, what is? The signing of two new players has made it clear that Houston is diversifying its roster, and Bregman’s future with the team is looking increasingly uncertain. There were even whispers about the Astros having their eyes on Nolan Arenado. Now that the Astros are almost out, a new team has emerged for the third baseman as an almost perfect spot.
The Tigers seem to be a good fit for Alex Bregman
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In a recent interview with Mark Feinsand, Feinsand said that the market for Alex Bregman took a bit of a hit. The once-highly sought-after third baseman is finding his options narrowing. As Feinsand points out, the Yankees have bolstered their roster with Max Fried and Cody Bellinger. So, where does that leave Bregman? According to Mark, there are still two teams that could be interested in the 30-year-old. The Boston Red Sox and Detroit Tigers stand out as the most likely landing spots. “The Tigers have an obvious connection with A.J. Hinch there; they need a third baseman, and he would be a very good fit,” Feinsand said.
.@Feinsand joins #MLBTonight to give the latest on top free agents Alex Bregman, Pete Alonso and Corbin Burnes. pic.twitter.com/OjS3PB9Zas
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) December 24, 2024
A.J. Hinch was the manager who oversaw Bregman’s rise to stardom. Hinch guided him through his early years and helped him reach his peak during that breakout 2019 season. If the Tigers sign Bregman, a happy reunion will be in the books just in time for Christmas. There is also a money issue, though. Bergman is said to want a deal near $200 million, according to MLB.com.
So, do the Tigers have that much to spend on the New Mexico native? The Red Sox sure do because of their active participation in the Juan Soto sweepstakes, but the Tigers? Apparently yes. They are in a strong financial position moving forward, with very little salary tied up long-term. Aside from Javier Báez’s deal and Colt Keith’s bargain contract, they have plenty of flexibility.
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The Red Sox emerge as another option
The Boston Red Sox have been making headlines for some time, particularly with their pursuit of Juan Soto. However, if we’re being honest, their real weakness lies in the middle. Trevor Story is often sidelined due to injuries, and David Hamilton is the club’s primary option. However, this could all be solved as the two-time All-Star has reportedly expressed openness to switching to second base if the situation is right.
And guess what? Boston could very well be that “right” situation. Remember, the club originally signed Story with plans to have him play second when Xander Bogaerts was still around? Now they could do the same with Bregman, slotting him in at second until they can get Rafael Devers to consider a move to first base or designated hitter. The Sox have a pair of blue-chip infield prospects in Marcelo Mayer and Kristian Campbell.
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Both the players could feel like they’re being pushed aside if the New Mexico native joins the fold. Not to mention, their addition could complicate the Sox’s future plans for the infield. But fear not; if Boston pulls the trigger on Alex Bregman, they could use Mayer or Campbell or even both as trade bait. By trade, the club could acquire the pitching help they so desperately need. We all know how much Bregman wanted to be back with the Astros, but with time everyone has to move on.
Now, whether the third baseman will move on with the Red Sox or the Tigers only time will tell. Which crew do you think Bregman should go for? Share with us below.
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