The New York Yankees are actively pursuing superstar outfielder Juan Soto in free agency, but another high-profile slugger could be a game-changing addition this winter: third baseman Alex Bregman.
Yankees eyeing Alex Bregman to bolster infield amid free-agent frenzy
Bregman, a cornerstone of the Houston Astros’ lineup during their heated rivalry with the Yankees, is now a free agent. His potential arrival in the Bronx could significantly bolster the Yankees’ infield and provide a powerful presence in their lineup. MLB.com insider Mark Feinsand recently identified New York as a potential landing spot for Bregman this offseason.
“Bregman has been part of the Houston core that has beaten the Yankees in the ALCS three times since 2017, so New York is well aware of how dangerous the third baseman can be,” Feinsand noted. He added that Jazz Chisholm Jr., who primarily played third base for the Yankees after the Trade Deadline, could return to his natural position at second base if the team signs Bregman or another third baseman.
The Yankees’ level of interest in Bregman, however, hinges on their ability to re-sign Soto, who is being courted by numerous teams, including the New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, Philadelphia Phillies, Boston Red Sox, and Toronto Blue Jays. Soto recently met with the Yankees and his agent, Scott Boras, in California, with reports suggesting the meeting went well.
Even if Soto returns, the Yankees still have significant gaps to fill in their infield. Both second baseman Gleyber Torres and first baseman Anthony Rizzo are free agents, leaving the team with multiple openings. Bringing in Bregman could help address these needs while giving the Yankees a proven postseason performer.
Bregman’s contract demands are expected to be steep, with reports suggesting he could seek a deal worth between $150 million and $350 million. Despite the hefty price tag, the 30-year-old would provide a substantial upgrade to the Yankees’ infield and add another elite bat to the middle of their lineup.
For now, Bregman appears to be a viable Plan B for New York if Soto chooses another destination. However, the addition of Bregman, whether alongside Soto or as a standalone acquisition, would be a significant boost to the Yankees’ roster. His playoff experience and familiarity with high-stakes moments make him an ideal fit for a team aiming to reclaim its status as a perennial World Series contender.
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Unless Bregman is prepared to admit what the 2017 Astros did was wrong, and to say this at least at both his signing & first Spring Training presser, there really is nothing to talk about.