In a significant move for the franchise, the Chicago Cubs have reached an agreement with third baseman Alex Bregman on a lucrative five-year contract valued at $175 million. This news was first reported by Jon Heyman of the New York Post and Jeff Passan of ESPN. Notably, this deal does not include any opt-out clauses; however, Bregman has secured a no-trade clause, as confirmed by Bob Nightengale of USA Today. Bregman, who is represented by the Boras Corporation, is coming off an opt-out from his previous contract with the Boston Red Sox.
The agreement provides Bregman with the long-term security he has been pursuing. MLB Trade Rumors had ranked him fifth on their Top 50 Free Agents list, projecting a six-year deal worth $160 million. While this new contract is one year shorter, it surpasses expectations with a remarkable average annual value of $35 million. For the Cubs, this acquisition is part of an active offseason as they continue to bolster their roster.
Just days prior to signing Bregman, the Cubs traded for young starter Edward Cabrera from the Miami Marlins. Additionally, they have made a flurry of signings, including reliever Phil Maton on a two-year contract, as well as one-year deals for relievers Jacob Webb, Caleb Thielbar, Hoby Milner, starter Colin Rea, and first baseman Tyler Austin. Pitcher Shota Imanaga also accepted his qualifying offer to remain with the team, further solidifying the Cubs' roster.
With Bregman joining the team, the Cubs' projected payroll for 2026 is now estimated at $231 million, significantly rising from last year’s $206 million. Furthermore, their Competitive Balance Tax (CBT) payroll is set at $247.6 million, which places them $3.6 million above the first luxury tax threshold. This substantial investment illustrates the Cubs' commitment to returning to contention in the upcoming seasons.
At 31 years old, Bregman had a productive season in 2025, participating in 114 games with the Red Sox and recording 495 plate appearances. Despite missing six weeks due to a right quad strain, he managed to maintain a solid offensive output, achieving a batting line of .273/.360/.462 and demonstrating a 25% offensive performance above league average according to wRC+. He improved his walk rate from a career-low of 6.9% to 10.3% in 2025, showcasing his ability to adapt and enhance his plate discipline.
Bregman’s defensive skills remain sharp, earning him 1 Defensive Run Saved and 3 Outs Above Average at third base. His overall contributions in 2025 resulted in a 3.5 fWAR and his third career All-Star nomination. Much of his success came from a strong start to the season, where he recorded a 156 wRC+ in his first two months before experiencing a decline post-injury.
With Bregman now occupying third base for the Cubs, the most affected player on the roster is incumbent third baseman Matt Shaw. Shaw debuted in 2025, accumulating 437 plate appearances and posting a line of .226/.295/.394 with a 93 wRC+. Although he provided acceptable production as a rookie, there are clear areas for improvement as he gears up for his sophomore season.
With Bregman off the market, the Red Sox and other potential suitors will need to explore different options for infield assistance. Reports indicate that Boston has shown interest in free agent Bo Bichette, as well as the Astros' Isaac Paredes and the Diamondbacks' Ketel Marte. The landscape of the offseason continues to evolve as teams adjust their strategies in light of recent signings and trades.
This monumental contract not only enhances the Cubs' lineup but also signals their determination to reclaim their position in the competitive landscape of Major League Baseball.