The Red Sox have finally made a major splash in free agency, signing infielder to a three-year, $120 million contract with opt-outs after the first two seasons. The deal, which includes deferred money, carries the highest average annual value in franchise history, surpassing Rafael Devers’ extension.
This move addresses Boston’s biggest need—a veteran right-handed bat—while capping off an eventful offseason that saw the team add Garrett Crochet and Walker Buehler to the rotation and Aroldis Chapman to the bullpen. His contract essentially functions as a one-year deal with flexibility, allowing him to test free agency again while giving the Red Sox a key piece for 2025.
The 31-year-old is expected to play second base, with Devers remaining at third. Although Bregman has spent most of his career at third base, Red Sox manager Alex Cora has long envisioned him as a strong defensive second baseman. Bregman reportedly turned down larger offers, including a six-year, $156 million deal from the Astros and a six-year, $170 million offer from the Tigers, opting instead for a shorter contract with a higher annual salary and a reunion with Cora.
His arrival complicates the immediate future of top prospect Kristian Campbell, who was in contention for the starting second base job, and could also impact Masataka Yoshida’s role if Devers spends time as a designated hitter. Despite some offensive decline in 2024, Bregman brings championship experience, a solid track record, and a swing that could thrive at Fenway Park.
By signing Bregman instead of pursuing a trade for someone like Nolan Arenado, the Red Sox will lose their second-highest 2025 draft pick (No. 54) and $500,000 in international bonus pool money. However, they regained a pick (around No. 77) earlier in the day when Nick Pivetta signed with San Diego.