The recent signing of Alex Bregman by the Chicago Cubs for five years and $175 million marks a significant moment in the MLB free agency landscape. Here are four crucial takeaways regarding how the Cubs can build on this major acquisition.
Earlier this week, I expressed skepticism about the Cubs' ability to secure one of the Big Four free-agent hitters, which included Bregman, Bo Bichette, Cody Bellinger, and Kyle Tucker. My prediction was based on the Cubs' historical tendency to be outbid by larger-market teams. However, the Cubs have defied expectations, showcasing what appears to be a successful offseason. Prior to signing Bregman, the Cubs invested over $30 million in five free-agent relievers, traded for Edward Cabrera from the Miami Marlins, and brought back Tyler Austin from Japan for $1.25 million. Among the available hitters, Bregman was clearly the Cubs' top target, especially after losing out on him last offseason.
With Bregman's new contract, he joins the list of clients represented by agent Scott Boras who have successfully opted out of short-term, high-value agreements. Combining this new deal with the $40 million Bregman earned during his single season with the Boston Red Sox, his total earnings amount to six years and $215 million. Although deferrals have reduced the immediate value of his contracts, the Cubs' deal also includes similar deferrals scheduled for payment a few years after the contract concludes. Ultimately, Bregman secured a better outcome compared to the six-year, $171.5 million offer he reportedly declined from the Detroit Tigers last offseason.
Recent clients of Boras, like Matt Chapman, Blake Snell, and Pete Alonso, have followed similar paths, signing lucrative deals or extensions after initially opting for shorter contracts. Notably, Snell’s agreement included deferrals, while Jordan Montgomery did not experience the same success, ultimately switching agents after signing a one-year, $25 million contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks.
As Bregman inks his deal, it could potentially influence Cody Bellinger's contract negotiations. Bellinger, 30, is reportedly seeking a seven-year contract, a demand that reflects the ongoing trends in player contracts for those around his age. Recent contracts for players like Dylan Cease and Blake Snell have set a precedent for longer agreements, making Bellinger's aspirations more plausible. However, the New York Yankees remain hesitant to meet Boras' demands, leaving Bellinger's future uncertain.
Before the Cubs' announcement regarding Bregman, he was a hot topic at the Red Sox's winter event, Fenway Fest. Outfielder Roman Anthony expressed his desire to see Bregman return, highlighting his influence in the clubhouse. With Bregman now off the market, the Red Sox are turning their attention to Bo Bichette, who has garnered interest from other teams, including the Philadelphia Phillies and the Los Angeles Dodgers.
With the Red Sox yet to secure a major-league free agent this offseason, their pursuit of Bichette could be complicated by their existing roster structure, which features a surplus of left-handed hitting outfielders. This situation raises the possibility that the Red Sox might miss out on acquiring a key player, despite their trades for first baseman Willson Contreras and pitchers Sonny Gray and Johan Oviedo.
As the offseason progresses, Red Sox Nation eagerly awaits the fulfillment of their promise for significant player acquisitions, especially after the departure of Rafael Devers.