The Boston Red Sox’s top priority is reportedly Alex Bregman, but according to MLB insider Robert Murray, he recently met with “several” teams, including the Chicago Cubs over Zoom.
“The Chicago Cubs had a Zoom meeting with free-agent infielder Alex Bregman a few weeks ago, sources familiar with the situation say,” Murray wrote on Tuesday. “Bregman has had ‘several’ Zoom meetings with other teams, a source said.”
The Cubs pursued Bregman last winter as well. However, after an All-Star campaign in Boston, they may have more incentive to meet his contract demands. The Cubs could also be losing Kyle Tucker this winter, meaning they need to find a way to replace his production.
Bregman was named an All-Star for the first time since 2019. He was a great player for the Red Sox, but was also praised as a leader in their clubhouse. He had a resurgent season, and it’s no surprise the Red Sox want him back.
During his two All-Star seasons with the Houston Astros, Bregman had a .970 OPS. In the next five seasons, he had a .795 OPS. Last season, he looked more like the old version of himself, posting an .821 OPS. However, he may have had an even better season if not for a quad injury that kept him out for a month.
Before his injury, he was hitting .299 with a .938 OPS. He had the ninth-best OPS in baseball. However, after returning from his injury, he had just a .724 OPS. Teams may be concerned about giving him a long-term deal, but the Red Sox have seen firsthand the impact he can have on their team.
However, the Cubs may be desperate to catch the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Central and to replace Tucker’s offensive production. They may be willing to outbid the Red Sox.
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