Alex Bregman to Exit Red Sox Contract

Alex Bregman is set to opt out of his contract with the Boston Red Sox, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. The 31-year-old third baseman has two years remaining on his deal, worth $80 million, although some funds are deferred.

Strong Performance with the Red Sox

In the recent 2025 season, Bregman showcased a solid batting average of .273, along with a .360 on-base percentage and a .462 slugging percentage, resulting in a 125 wRC+ over 114 games. This marked a notable recovery from a dip in his walk rate in 2024, improving from 6.7% to 10.3% in 2025. Furthermore, his strikeout rate remained impressively low at 14.1%.

Batted Ball Metrics

Bregman’s batted ball metrics were particularly impressive. He recorded a 90.1 mph average exit velocity and a 44.4% hard-hit rate, both of which are career highs. Despite a right quad injury that caused him to miss seven weeks, he contributed significantly, achieving 3.5 fWAR and ranking seventh among major league third basemen with at least 400 plate appearances.

Defensive Capabilities

Defensively, Bregman continued to be a valuable asset, registering one Defensive Run Saved (DRS) and three Outs Above Average (OAA) over 972 1/3 innings at third base in 2025. His defensive capabilities were reflected in his ranking, as he placed in the 83rd percentile for range, although slightly lower than his performance in 2024 when he had six DRS and eight OAA with the Astros.

Contract Opt-Out Decision

By opting out, Bregman forgoes two years with an annual average value of $40 million. However, due to the $60 million being deferred until 2035-2046, the AAV is misleading. As Bregman enters free agency, he will aim to secure a better guarantee compared to his current contract.

Market Considerations

Under the current Collective Bargaining Agreement, Bregman is ineligible for a qualifying offer after having received one from the Astros last offseason. Consequently, any team that signs him will not have to surrender a draft pick.

• Bregman is the leading third base option in the upcoming free agency.
• Eugenio Suarez is the next best choice but is older and less defensively capable.
• Teams interested in Bregman may include the Tigers and Cubs.

Potential Future with the Red Sox

A return to the Red Sox remains a possibility. The team has had changes, including trading Rafael Devers. They did not exceed the luxury tax threshold in 2024 and anticipate a budgetary review for the upcoming season.

If Boston decides to maintain a similar payroll and reallocate funds from departing salaries, they may pursue retaining Bregman. Should he leave, alternatives like prospect Marcelo Mayer or free-agent option Suarez could be explored.