MLB Rumors: Alex Bregman Reunion Not Ruled Out by Astros; Cubs Also Eyeing Contract
While most signs point to Alex Bregman joining a new club this offseason, he reportedly could be back in Houston next year.
According to USA Today's Bob Nightengale, the Astros "are keeping the door ajar for" Bregman to return to Houston. Nightengale noted that if Bregman returns, the Astros could shift Isaac Paredes to second base while moving Jose Altuve to left field.
The Athletic's Chandler Rome reported that the Astros and Bregman re-engaged in contract talks this week.
The New York Post's Jon Heyman later reported the Chicago Cubs are believed to have interest in Bregman:
Bregman reportedly declined a six-year deal worth around $156 million from the Astros earlier this offseason and that contract is still "on the table" according to Rome. Bregman is believed to be seeking a deal closer to $200 million. That figure might be too much for Houston to fork over, as the biggest contract the Astros have ever given was Jose Altuve's five-year, $151 million extension in 2018.
The Astros also added to their infield earlier this offseason when they signed Christian Walker to a three-year, $60 million deal, so they aren't exactly desperate to bring back Bregman.
As Nightengale noted, Bregman has generated interest from several teams, including the Detroit Tigers. The Detroit Free Press' Evan Petzold reported last week that the Tigers "remain interested" in Bregman, though contract talks between the two sides "are at a standstill."
Petzold also reported that Bregman has garnered interest from the Boston Red Sox and Toronto Blue Jays.
With other teams getting in the mix, the Astros will likely have to act soon to get Bregman back to Houston next season. While they could likely still field a competitive roster without Bregman, he's been a staple of their squad for nearly a decade, helping them win a pair of World Series in 2017 and 2022.
The 30-year-old slashed .260/.315/.453 with 26 home runs and 75 RBI in 2024. He's one of the best free agents remaining this offseason and his market should only heat up in the months leading up to spring training.
