Last offseason, Alex Bregman signed a three-year, $120 million contract with the Boston Red Sox.
But he left in it the option to opt-out after one season. And on Monday, Bregman exercised that choice.
The Boston Globe's Pete Abraham reported Monday morning that Bregman is indeed opting out.
It's not a surprise. Bregman was anticipated as a probable opt-out from the moment Boston's season ended.
The reason: His contract featured a ton of deferred money. So that $40 million per year that seems apparent on the surface was actually spread out a long ways into the future.
By hitting free agency now, Bregman can try to nail down one final big contract for himself.
MORE: Mets named best free agent fit for Yankees' 30-year old star
Bregman battled injury in 2025, but when he was on the field, he was still his usual self.
The 31-year old put up a.273 batting average and an.821 OPS. In 114 games, he hit 28 doubles and 18 home runs.
Bregman wasn't quite at his Gold Glove level at third base, but he's viewed at someone who can stay at that position and get the job done moving forward.
The Red Sox are expected to remain in the race for his signature again. The Detroit Tigers were the other team reportedly closest to signing Bregman last offseason.
And as is often the case, there'll probably be a third mystery team involved in the negotiations at some point.
Regardless, Bregman has started the ball rolling by opting out. And a key contract outcome is coming soon that could make a big impact in the American League.
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