Alex Bregman’s free agency saga keeps dragging on, and it’s getting interesting. The Astros tried pivoting to Jorge Polanco before he chose Seattle, which might push them back toward their longtime third baseman.
Here’s what we know: Bregman’s looking for a long-term commitment. The two-time All-Star put up solid numbers last year, slashing .260/.315/.453 with 26 homers and 75 RBI. That’s not elite production, but it’s the kind of consistent performance that usually draws plenty of interest.
What makes this situation different is how quiet the market’s been. We’re deep into January, spring training’s right around the corner, and Bregman’s still unsigned. The Astros seem like the obvious fit, especially now that Polanco’s off the board.
“Feel so bad for the mid-to-upper-tier free agents who’ve chosen Boras who aren’t in his winners’ bracket. Can I say Bregman again? I think he opts out after one season in INSERT NEW HOME TBD, then has to find work once more next winter,” writes Adam Weinrib of FanSided.
That’s an interesting prediction, and it highlights the risk in Bregman’s position. If he signs a deal with an opt-out after year one – which seems likely – he’d be betting on himself to have a big season. But this winter’s shown that even established players aren’t guaranteed quick deals.
The way things are trending, Bregman might not sign until teams report to spring training. A return to Houston makes sense for both sides. They know what they’re getting with him, and he knows the system. But baseball’s funny that way – sometimes the obvious move isn’t the one that happens.
If Bregman does opt out after 2024, he might find himself in the same position next winter: waiting out a slow market while younger options sign first. That’s just the reality of today’s free agent landscape.
