What Alex Bregman opting out would mean for Red Sox

What Alex Bregman opting out would mean for Red Sox

Bregman has two opt-out clauses in his contract, and it appears that he will use the first one this offseason to return to free agency. He'll likely have several other suitors pursuing him as he searches for a long-term contract worth more money.

Teams that showed interest last offseason included the Chicago Cubs, Detroit Tigers and Toronto Blue Jays, per Feinsand. They could all be back in the fold as the market heats up this winter. The Houston Astros were also in on him, but with Carlos Correa now at third base, a reunion seems doubtful.

Bregman could still return to Boston, but that is far from guaranteed. If he leaves, the Red Sox will have to explore other options to replace him. 

Red Sox could reignite talks with Cardinals about Nolan Arenado

Nolan Arenado was willing to waive his no-trade clause to join the Red Sox last offseason, and the St. Louis Cardinals had discussed a potential trade. Boston could ultimately circle back to the Cardinals and reignite trade talks if they lose Bregman as they attempt to return to the postseason in 2026. 

Arenado is the most probable option they could pivot to if Bregman leaves, considering their past interest and that the Cardinals are now rebuilding.

The Red Sox are expected to make a strong effort to keep Bregman, but they'll face stiff competition, and it is possible that he could be lured elsewhere, forcing Boston to pivot. Bregman hit .273/.360/.462 with 18 home runs, 62 RBI and an .821 OPS this year, earning his third All-Star nod.