Cubs Explore Short-Term Deal for Free Agent Alex Bregman

CHICAGO, Ill. — With less than a month until pitchers and catchers report for Spring Training, two-time World Series champion Alex Bregman remains unsigned after rejecting a six-year, $156 million offer from the Houston Astros. The Cubs have emerged as a potential suitor, engaging in “casual” discussions with Bregman’s agent, Scott Boras, according to Chicago baseball insider Bruce Levine.

Bregman, 30, is seeking a contract exceeding $200 million, but the Cubs are reportedly interested only in a short-term deal. Levine suggests a potential framework of three years with opt-outs after each of the first two seasons, similar to the deal Cody Bellinger signed with Chicago last offseason. Bellinger was later traded to the Yankees in a salary dump.

The Astros’ offer, which Bregman declined, was seen as fair market value at $26 million annually. However, Bregman and Boras have held out for a more lucrative deal, aiming to surpass the $200 million threshold. Despite his age and a slight decline in offensive production, Bregman remains a high-caliber player, posting a .260/.315/.453 slash line with 26 home runs and a 4.1 fWAR in 2024.

Other teams, including the Red Sox, Yankees, Tigers, and Mariners, have also expressed interest in Bregman, though none have met his asking price. The Cubs, who have stayed out of the top free-agent market in recent years, are reportedly exploring the possibility of adding Bregman to bolster their infield. Top prospect Matt Shaw is currently the favorite to start at third base, but Bregman would provide a more reliable option if Shaw struggles in his rookie season.

Signing Bregman would come at a cost. The Astros extended a qualifying offer to Bregman, meaning the Cubs would forfeit their second and fifth-round draft picks in 2025, as well as $1 million in international free-agent pool space. Despite this, Bregman’s postseason experience and consistent performance make him an attractive option for a team looking to compete in 2025.

Whether the Cubs’ interest is genuine or a leverage play by Boras to drive up offers from other teams remains unclear. However, with Spring Training approaching, Bregman’s market is expected to heat up as teams finalize their rosters.