Red Sox Miss Out on Bregman, Turn Attention to Bichette
The Chicago Cubs have secured a major free agent signing by landing infielder Alex Bregman with a five-year, $175 million deal, outbidding the Boston Red Sox in the process. According to Chris Cotillo of Mass Live, the Red Sox were willing to match the Cubs on the five-year term, but ultimately fell short on the financial commitment. This marks a significant turn of events for Boston, who initially signed Bregman to a three-year, $120 million contract just last winter that included opt-out clauses after the 2025 and 2026 seasons. Taking advantage of his contractual flexibility, the veteran star decided to opt out after a single season with the Red Sox in pursuit of a longer-term arrangement, while also turning down his one-year, $22 million qualifying offer from the club.
The deal with Chicago represents a substantial investment, paying Bregman $35 million annually over the next five years. Unlike his previous contract with Boston, this new agreement with the Cubs includes a full no-trade clause and eliminates any opt-out options, essentially securing Bregman’s place in Chicago for the duration of the contract unless both the team and player agree to a trade. This commitment reflects the Cubs’ determination to bolster their infield and add a proven veteran bat to their lineup, while simultaneously dealing a blow to Boston’s roster construction plans heading into the offseason.
For Red Sox fans, watching Bregman walk away after just one season is undoubtedly disappointing, especially considering the team receives no compensation for their significant investment. However, the silver lining lies in the availability of several high-profile alternatives still on the free agent market. Chief among these options is shortstop Bo Bichette, who despite his natural position, projects as a potential second or third baseman at the major league level moving forward. At 26 years old, Bichette offers a considerably younger alternative to the 31-year-old Bregman, and while his defensive metrics might not match Bregman’s prowess at the hot corner, his offensive capabilities could provide similar or even superior production in Boston’s lineup.
Bichette’s free agency has already generated significant interest around the league. Reports indicate he’s scheduled to meet with the Philadelphia Phillies on Monday, while powerhouse organizations like the Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Yankees are also monitoring his situation closely. This competitive market means the Red Sox will likely need to make a substantial financial commitment if they hope to secure Bichette’s services. However, his age and potential for long-term production align well with Boston’s current core of young talent, making him an appealing target for the organization’s front office as they look to build a sustainable contender.
The connection between Boston and Bichette has already been established in industry circles, with MLB insider Bob Nightengale reporting on social media that the Red Sox “will now turn their sights to Bo Bichette” following the news of Bregman’s departure to Chicago. This strategic pivot makes sense for a Boston organization that clearly had financial flexibility earmarked for infield improvement this offseason. Bichette’s career .299 batting average and consistent offensive production would provide the Red Sox with a dynamic middle-of-the-order bat to replace Bregman’s contributions.
As the free agent market continues to develop, the Red Sox find themselves at a crossroads. Missing out on retaining Bregman represents a setback in their immediate plans, but it also creates an opportunity to potentially secure a younger, equally talented player who could contribute to the team’s success for years to come. Whether Boston ultimately lands Bichette or explores other available options, the organization’s response to this situation will reveal much about their competitive intentions and financial approach heading into the 2025 season and beyond. Meanwhile, Cubs fans can celebrate landing a proven performer in Bregman as they look to climb back into contention in the competitive National League Central division.
