Further details emerge on how Red Sox bungled Alex Bregman's free agency

The Red Sox had their chance to keep third baseman Alex Bregman in Boston. Instead, they bungled that opportunity in a truly embarrassing fashion.

According to former All-Star catcher A.J. Pierzynski in an interview on Foul Territory, Bregman had become frustrated with the Red Sox refusal to move from their initial offer. He further stated that, when agent Scott Boras informed them of the Cubs offer, the Red Sox did not believe that contract was on the table.

Additional details have since emerged about the Red Sox failed attempt to keep Bregman. Pete Abraham of The Boston Globe reported that the Red Sox refused to give Bregman a no-trade clause, something he wanted to give stability to his family. Sean McAdam of MassLive.com reported that the Red Sox deferrals would have spanned decades, further reducing the present day value of the offer.

Red Sox will miss more than Alex Bregman's production

ESPN's Buster Olney put another spotlight on the Red Sox miscalculating Bregman's market. The value of the contract, with the deferrals, would have been approximately $120 million. Not only did the Red Sox give pitcher Ranger Suarez a $130 million contract, but first baseman Pete Alonso and designated hitter Kyle Schwarber received $155 million and $150 million from the Orioles and Phillies, respectively.

Bregman has been more valuable than any of that trio. He had a strong showing offensively in 2025, posting a .273/.360/.462 batting line with 18 homers and 28 doubles over his 495 plate appearances. Bregman has been of the game's best defensive third basemen and his presence made a difference for the Red Sox pitching staff.

Bregman's impact went beyond the box score. He was a leader in the clubhouse and a mentor to the younger players, helping them adjust to the major leagues. He had become a beloved figure in the locker room in a short amount of time. That leadership and mentorship could make a drastic difference years from now as the younger players continue their careers. Instead, the Red Sox find themselves scrambling at third because they could not properly value what they had.