The New York Yankees have made significant strides in rebuilding their roster after losing Juan Soto in free agency.
To strengthen their pitching, the Yankees signed starter Max Fried and acquired closer Devin Williams via trade. They then focused on offense, trading for Cody Bellinger and signing Paul Goldschmidt. Despite these moves, the team still has a gap at either third base or second base, depending on where Jazz Chisholm Jr. is positioned.
According to Zach Pressnell of Newsweek, the Yankees are likely to target Alex Bregman to fill their need at third base.
“General manager Brian Cashman opted for a more cost-effective solution at first base,” Pressnell explained. “The Yankees passed on Pete Alonso, another big bat on the market, to keep spending flexible for an upgrade at third base. And who’s the top option?
“Astros veteran third baseman Alex Bregman. He’s been linked to the Yankees throughout the offseason,” Pressnell continued. “While other teams are in the mix, the Astros—once considered the frontrunners—appear to be out of the running after signing Walker.”
The Yankees have been in contact with Bregman during free agency. He would bring a strong middle-of-the-order presence and solid defense at third base, making him an ideal fit for New York’s roster.
Analyst Calls Yankees ‘Heavy Favorite’ to Sign Bregman
With New York spending less on first base than anticipated, Pressnell believes the Yankees are now the frontrunners to sign Alex Bregman.
Bregman, one of the top free-agent hitters available, appears to be a perfect match for the Yankees, according to Pressnell.
“For the Yankees, signing the longtime Astro would address the team’s biggest roster gap in a significant way,” Pressnell said. “Bregman would take over at third base, allowing Jazz Chisholm Jr. to move to his natural position at second base. This shift not only strengthens the infield but also represents a major upgrade over former Yankee Gleyber Torres. New York should be viewed as the clear favorite to land Bregman.”
In 2024 with the Houston Astros, Bregman posted a .260 batting average, hitting 26 home runs with 75 RBIs. His career highs include 41 home runs and 119 RBIs, both achieved in 2019.
Bregman is a two-time All-Star, as well as a Silver Slugger and Gold Glove recipient.
What is Bregman Expected to Get in Free Agency?
Bregman is among the top free-agent hitters on the market and is anticipated to land a multi-year contract.
In their annual Top 50 free agent predictions, MLBTradeRumors projected Bregman would secure a seven-year deal worth $182 million.
“Bregman isn’t entering free agency at the perfect time, as he’ll be 31 next season. While that’s not ‘old’ for a free agent, it might limit him to a maximum of seven years on a deal… Whether he secures a seven-year contract (or longer) remains uncertain, but he’s likely to receive offers of at least six years.
Matt Chapman recently signed a six-year, $151 million extension starting at age 32, which will likely serve as a baseline for Bregman. Given he’s younger and more consistent offensively, Bregman is expected to surpass that,” the article noted.
Bregman was a pivotal part of the Astros’ World Series-winning teams in 2017 and 2022.
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