Alex Bregman to the Cubs feels like a real possibility |
It is starting to appear that the Alex Bregman-Cubs rumors are becoming more than just rumors. Reports initially showed that the Cubs were interested but unwilling to extend the offer Bregman was looking for.
However, reports from Tuesday night indicate that the Cubs have put forward a “creative” offer for Alex Bregman. The sources say the offer is for four years, north of $100 million, and contains opt-outs. The Cubs are reportedly willing to go near the $30 million average annual value Bregman seeks — but is that enough to land the two-time All-Star? Here’s what we know: Bregman has been linked to the Seattle Mariners, Toronto Blue Jays, Houston Astros, Boston Red Sox, Detroit Tigers, and Chicago Cubs. Reports have indicated that the Detroit Tigers have the strongest offer on the table, however Alex Bregman’s interest in the Tigers is not well documented and their signing of Jack Flaherty complicates their finances. Beyond the Tigers, Bregman has been rumored to not “want” to go to Toronto or Seattle. The Houston Astros prepared for Bregman's loss by signing Christian Walker to play first base, trading for third basemen Isaac Parede, and prospect Cam Smith from the Cubs. This leaves the Boston Red Sox and the Chicago Cubs. The Red Sox have been linked to Nolan Arenado as a potential trade partner with the St. Louis Cardinals, as some of their front office members have “mixed” thoughts on signing Alex Bregman long-term. So, by process of elimination, it feels like the Cubs’ race to lose. Like the Cody Bellinger sweepstakes last winter, another Scott Boras client, the Cubs have the resources to make a shorter, higher AAV deal work or a long-term one that meets Bregman’s asking price — plus they have the interest. After all, it took until late February for the Cubs and Bellinger to finally agree on the 3-year, 80 million dollar contract with opt-outs last winter. If Jed Hoyer and the Cubs believe Bregman is a guy to target to put them over the top in the National League Central, they have the opportunity to get him. So, why don’t they? Bregman is a big-time run producer. The two-time all-star has posted a war above 4.0 in 6 of his seven full MLB seasons. Coming off his first Gold Glove, Bregman averages 28 home runs and 97 RBI over a 162-game pace. With plenty of playoff experience, Bregman boasts an attitude that exudes leadership and a commitment to winning. Mix that in with one of the league’s best players over the last eight seasons, and it’s no wonder he’s an attractive free agent this winter. The Cubs have an opening for him and the budget to afford him. With some of the other interested teams falling out of contention, Bregman's move to the Cubs feels more like a plausible option than a pipe dream.
