The New York Yankees just faced a disappointing defeat in the 2024 World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. While the sting of this loss is still fresh, the organization is already turning its attention to the upcoming season and evaluating what roster changes are necessary to return to championship glory. A key player in their sights could be longtime Houston Astros third baseman, Alex Bregman.
As the Yankees prioritize re-signing outfielder Juan Soto, speculation is rife regarding his future. According to Bleacher Report’s Erik Beaston, there’s a growing belief that Soto may cross town to join the New York Mets, as outlined in a fresh wave of offseason predictions. This potential loss of a key offensive weapon leaves the Yankees exploring alternative options.
In a recent article, Jon Heyman of the New York Post highlighted Bregman alongside outfielder Anthony Santander as potential targets for the Yankees should they fail to retain Soto. “With Soto predicted to go to the Mets, look for the Yankees to make a splash elsewhere,” Beaston noted. “Bregman is a strong candidate to join the team and fill a position that needs an upgrade.”
According to Spotrac, Bregman’s market value is estimated at four years and $119 million, though it’s likely that his agent, Scott Boras, will aim for a more lucrative deal. Notably, Bleacher Report’s Zachary Rymer projected on August 1 that Bregman could secure a contract worth around $210 million.
Addressing the Third Base Need
Bregman would provide the Yankees with the stability they desperately need at third base. Following a mid-season acquisition, Jazz Chisholm Jr. saw significant playing time at third but has a history of playing second base during his early career with the Miami Marlins. Gleyber Torres, currently occupying the second base role, is also entering free agency. If he does not return, Chisholm could transition to second, leaving a glaring hole at third base.
The Yankees’ third basemen collectively produced a modest 3.4 WAR in 2024, ranking eighth in Major League Baseball. Most of that production stemmed from Chisholm, who delivered 2.1 WAR in just 45 games at third. This indicates a clear need for improvement in that position.
Bregman’s statistics from 2022 to 2024 highlight his potential impact: a slash line of .260/.349/.449 with an average of 25 home runs, 32 doubles, 89 RBIs, and 92 runs scored per season showcases his offensive capabilities and consistent performance.
Controversy Surrounding a Bregman Signing
Despite the obvious fit, there are concerns about Bregman joining the Yankees due to the longstanding animosity between the Yankees and Astros stemming from the infamous sign-stealing scandal. Joel Reuter addressed this issue in an October 11 Bleacher Report article, suggesting that the negative history could make a Bregman signing contentious. “The bad blood could make the idea of signing Bregman a non-starter,” Reuter said. “However, it’s worth considering how he might be received by the fanbase, given the Yankees’ clear need at third base.”
Ultimately, the Yankees’ offseason strategy hinges significantly on Juan Soto’s decision. If he opts to re-sign with New York, the urgency for Bregman may diminish. Conversely, if Soto chooses another team, the speculation around Bregman will likely intensify, making him a focal point in the Yankees’ quest to retool and return to the Fall Classic.
As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on the Bronx Bombers as they navigate potential signings, trades, and the overarching challenge of building a championship-caliber team for 2025.