Red Sox Star a Long Shot for Yankees

So you're saying there's a chance? In what would be a win-win move, the New York Yankees are being linked to Boston Red Sox third baseman Alex Bregman, who opted out of his contract to become a free agent.

ESPN's David Schoenfield says the Red Sox are the best fit for the 31-year-old. But if a return to Beantown isn't in the cards, Schoenfield reports the Yankees, Detroit Tigers and Philadelphia Phillies could jump in the mix.

"Bregman's contact ability makes him a likely fit for the Tigers -- and he'll be too expensive for the Brewers," Schoenfield notes. "The interesting long shot candidates would be the Yankees and Phillies. The Yankees have Ryan McMahon under contract, but he posted a .641 OPS after coming over from the Colorado Rockies at the trade deadline and his strikeout issues are a concern."

Not So Fast

However MLB.com's Mark Feinsand doesn't list the Yankees as a good fit, noting Bregman's market consists of the Red Sox, Phillies and Tigers.

Add MLB.com's Bryan Hoch to the list of people who believe Bregman won't be bound for the Bronx.

"It seems a safe bet that they’ll go into the season with Ryan McMahon at third base," Hoch notes. "McMahon’s defense was a vast improvement over what they had at the hot corner previously, and even though his bat didn’t play up to expectations (.641 OPS in 54 games), he delivered a few clutch moments.

"McMahon is earning $32 million through 2027, which likely precludes a serious run at a free agent like Alex Bregman," Hoch concludes.

Contract Projection

As for how much it will cost to sign the three-time All-Star, MLB Trade Rumors pegs Bregman's contract at six years and $160 million.

"The Tigers, having made good long-term offers last winter, seem more likely to renew their pursuit of Bregman," MLB Trade Rumors notes. "If things don’t work out with the Red Sox, the Angels, Blue Jays, Mariners, Mets, and Phillies could be other possibilities."