The Boston Red Sox are headed for an intriguing free-agency period this winter. They have the flexibility to pursue players who can make a significant impact, and one of the most notable names is Alex Bregman, who opted out of his contract.
“Alex Bregman has officially opted out of his contract with the Red Sox, per a report from Peter Abraham of the Boston Globe. Bregman will return to free agency, leaving the final two years and $80MM (including $40MM in deferred money) of the deal he signed with Boston last offseason on the table,” MLB Trade Rumors' Nick Deeds wrote.
Bregman is expected to command substantial money on the open market — likely around $150 million.
“Both Alex Speier of The Boston Globe and Tyler Milliken of WEEI suggested Matt Chapman's contract as a comparison to what Bregman could get. The third baseman signed a bridge deal with the San Francisco Giants in 2024, posted a rebound season, then signed a six-year, $151 million extension,” BoSox Injection’s Katie Manganelli wrote.
In a recent interview on the ITM Podcast, Red Sox legend David Ortiz made it clear that he wants Bregman back.
“My message to him? Please come back," Ortiz said while laughing with Joey Copponi and Scott Neville on the "ITM Podcast" on Friday. "I love Alex man. I think he's a great player. He's got really incredible leadership. One thing I love about him, he's a team player. I remember last year, when he first joined the team. Even with all the controversy and all the talk going on with Raffy, I came to spring training and I was watching Alex trying to help Raffy out. He always had my respect but that put the cherry on top.”
Bringing Bregman back would be a massive boost for Boston. The Red Sox reached the Wild Card Round this past season and could push even deeper with Bregman returning to the lineup.
It’s safe to say Ortiz wants him back — and for him, the reasons go beyond just baseball. Bregman is a strong veteran presence, and Ortiz recognizes the value of that leadership.
As part of his fundraising efforts, Ortiz is holding a silent auction loaded with priceless items that will be live until Saturday, Nov. 15 at 9:30 p.m. ET. You can also donate to the cause on the David Ortiz Children's Fund's website
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