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Could the Yankees Reverse Course and Pursue a $120 Veteran Infielder This Winter?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kristie Ackert | Last updated May 21, 2025 12:58 PM ET

Jim Bowden believes the New York Yankees will circle back on Alex Bregman next winter if he opts out of his deal with the Boston Red Sox.

In a recent column for The Athletic, the former MLB general manager, who did work for Yankees GM Brian Cashman, floated the idea that New York “will have interest” in the two-time All-Star third baseman. But unless something changes dramatically, that interest may be purely theoretical.

Bregman signed a three-year deal with the Red Sox this past offseason, one that includes an opt-out after 2025. Over 49 games, he boasts a .303 batting average, .386 on-base percentage, and .569 slugging percentage, culminating in a .955 OPS. His 165 wRC+ indicates he's been 65% better than the league-average hitter, underscoring his significant contribution to the team's offense.

So, it make sense he will opt out.

What doesn’t make as much sense is the Yankees doing a 180 on Bregman.

The Yankees had a chance to pursue him as a free agent just months ago. They didn’t.

Despite a glaring need at third base, New York never appeared to consider Bregman, even as his market lingered seriously. The front office instead rolled with stopgaps and internal options, betting on DJ LeMahieu’s health and Oswaldo Cabrera’s versatility.

And in the minors, they began moving top prospect George Lombard Jr. around the infield, including a growing number of starts at third base.

Lombard, 19, is now getting regular reps at the hot corner in Double-A Somerset. He’s expected to debut at some point next year, and many inside the organization believe he could be the long-term answer at the position.

That doesn’t mean Bregman is off the table entirely. If he opts out and the Yankees’ internal options don’t pan out, the conversation could shift. But based on how the Yankees handled his free agency the first time — and how closely they’re watching Lombard’s development — Bowden’s projection feels like a long shot dressed up as a fit.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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