The New York Yankees are keen to re-sign Juan Soto, but in case he departs, they have other options on the table in MLB free agency. According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, one of the alternatives they’re considering is Houston Astros star infielder Alex Bregman.
“If the New York Yankees don’t re-sign Juan Soto, one back-up plan floating around is signing free-agent first baseman Christian Walker, sign either Willy Adames or Alex Bregman to play third, shift Jazz Chisholm to second base, trade for Cubs center fielder Cody Bellinger, and then use the extra money to sign Burnes, Fried or Snell,” Nightengale detailed in his November 25, 2024 article titled, “MLB rumor mill: What we’re hearing from GMs with Juan Soto contract looming large.”
Let’s examine Bregman’s potential fit with the Yankees, along with the latest rumors surrounding him.
Alex Bregman Seeks $200 Million Contract: Insider
Bregman, a two-time World Series champion, is expected to command a hefty contract. Spotrac estimates his market value at a four-year, $119 million deal. However, he is reportedly aiming for a much larger sum. Nightengale notes that Bregman is looking for a $200 million contract, though it’s uncertain if he will secure such a deal.
“The Houston Astros would love to have Alex Bregman back on a six-year deal worth about $156 million, but Bregman is seeking a deal worth at least $200 million,” Nightengale added.
Mets Seen as Favorite for Juan Soto: Report
While the Yankees are eager to keep Soto, there’s stiff competition, including from their rivals. MLB executives believe the New York Mets are the frontrunners to sign Soto due to their willingness to offer a deal that would be hard for the slugger to refuse.
“The Mets are the clear-cut favorite, executives say, simply because they don’t believe there’s a soul who will outbid owner Steve Cohen, while Yankees have a price in mind that they don’t want to exceed,” Nightengale wrote.
He also mentioned that while the Toronto Blue Jays could be a sleeper in the Soto race, their focus may shift to future free agents Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette, which could require a significant offer to beat the Mets.
Bregman Draws Interest from Multiple Teams: Insider
Bregman’s impressive career has attracted attention from various teams. He is a two-time All-Star, two-time World Series champion, former Gold Glove winner, and All-Star MVP. Although the Astros remain his most likely destination, other teams like the Detroit Tigers and Toronto Blue Jays are also showing interest.
“Bregman remaining a lifetime Houston Astro alongside Jose Altuve is a real possibility, particularly with the Astros concerned about ponying up for outfielder Kyle Tucker, who hits free agency after next season and is looking at a $300 million-plus deal,” ESPN’s Jeff Passan wrote in his November 12 piece titled, “Jeff Passan’s 2024-25 MLB offseason preview, intel, updates.”
“If it’s not the Astros, Bregman would be an excellent fit in Detroit — where he could reunite with former manager AJ Hinch — as well as Toronto, should it fall short on Soto.”
