The New York Yankees, determined to address key roster needs, have discussed free-agent third baseman Alex Bregman with his agent, Scott Boras. This development, revealed during a press conference where general manager Brian Cashman apologized for multitasking on his phone, highlights the urgency as the Yankees work to finalize their roster ahead of spring training.
“We need to put the best team on paper,” Cashman said. “Now is the time to strike.”
Yankees explore Alex Bregman as offseason target amid roster overhaul
The Yankees have already bolstered their pitching staff, signing Max Fried to an eight-year, $218 million deal and acquiring Brewers closer Devin Williams. However, the lineup needs attention after losing Juan Soto to the New York Mets. Enter Bregman, a seasoned third baseman with championship pedigree, whose availability has garnered interest across the league.
Boras emphasized Bregman’s value during the Winter Meetings, describing him as a leader and proven winner. “Teams know what comes after A (Alex) and B (Bregman) is a C — champion,” Boras quipped.
The Yankees’ infield needs are apparent. Following the trade of Caleb Durbin, the presumed starting second baseman, internal options include Oswaldo Cabrera, Oswald Peraza, and Jorbit Vivas. DJ LeMahieu’s durability is a concern, and while Jazz Chisholm Jr. offers versatility, he’s more natural in the middle infield. Signing Bregman could solidify third base, allowing Chisholm to slot in at second.
While Boras has indicated Bregman would consider a position change, he would likely remain at third base if signed by New York. Intriguingly, some Yankees executives have admired Bregman since his LSU days, but his association with the 2017 Astros — a team at the center of a sign-stealing scandal — adds complexity. Cashman has been vocal about that controversy but did not dismiss the possibility of signing Bregman.
“My job is to improve this team,” Cashman said. “He’s been a thorn in our side and is now a free agent with plenty of options. I respect his ability and winning track record, but that’s all I’ll say for now.”
Bregman’s fit in The Bronx raises questions. His power numbers could dip without Houston’s short left-field porch, and his offensive production declined in 2024, with a 118 wRC+, a .315 on-base percentage, and career lows in several metrics. However, his second-half resurgence — an OPS near .850 over his final 108 games — hints at his potential.
At 31, Bregman represents a calculated risk, but the Yankees’ window with Aaron Judge and Gerrit Cole in their prime is narrowing.
A recent trade involving Kyle Tucker saw Houston acquire Isaac Paredes and prospect Cam Smith, potentially reducing their need for Bregman. This development could increase New York’s chances of landing the two-time champion if they act decisively.
For a team needing offensive upgrades, Bregman could be the next piece in the Yankees’ offseason puzzle. Whether they pull the trigger may depend on the price and whether they believe his second-half performance signals a return to form.
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