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Alex Bregman Joins Boston Red Sox After Extended Free Agency Negotiations

After a prolonged period of uncertainty spanning nearly five months, Alex Bregman has reportedly secured a new team.

The two-time All-Star third baseman has inked a three-year contract with the Boston Red Sox, according to an ESPN report released Wednesday.

Bregman recently earned his first Gold Glove Award while with the Houston Astros in 2024, and since 2021, he has posted an impressive batting line of .262/.350/.444.

Although he was presented with a lucrative six-year, $156 million offer to return to the Astros, Bregman opted to decline the deal. His name surfaced in various trade rumors, especially linked to the Detroit Tigers where he could have reunited with former manager A.J. Hinch. However, ongoing disputes with agent Scott Boras complicated some negotiations.

Drafted second overall by the Astros in 2015, Bregman contributed to two World Series victories, including the controversial 2017 title which many fans criticize due to the sign-stealing scandal.

Despite this cloud of controversy, he played an integral role in a franchise that has consistently excelled, reaching seven consecutive American League Championship Series, a feat just one shy of the all-time record set by the 1990s Atlanta Braves.

Bregman’s new contract is valued at $120 million, which results in an average annual salary of $40 million. This figure ties him for the fourth-largest contract in Major League Baseball. Additionally, he will reunite with manager Alex Cora, who served as the Astros’ bench coach during Bregman’s championship run in 2017. Notably, the contract allows Bregman to opt out after each season, providing him with flexibility.

In the previous season, Bregman hit 26 home runs, marking his highest total since smashing 41 in 2019, and drove in 75 runs. However, he struggled to achieve a favorable on-base percentage, recording a career-low .768 OPS largely due to his diminished walk rate. His 44 walks were the fewest he has recorded in a full season.

While Bregman may not currently be at his peak MVP level, as evidenced by his leading the majors with an 8.9 WAR in 2019, his hitting skills remain elite. Similarly, his defensive capabilities shine, underscored by his recent Gold Glove Award.

The Red Sox, who finished with an 81-81 record last season, have made several offseason moves to bolster their roster. The team acquired Garrett Crochet and Walker Buehler for their starting rotation. They also strengthened their bullpen by bringing in Aroldis Chapman and Justin Wilson. With the addition of Bregman, the Red Sox now project as a competitive force in the league.

Fans and analysts alike will certainly be keeping a close eye on Bregman’s performance in the upcoming season, as his return to health and form could have significant implications for the Red Sox’s playoff aspirations.

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