Boston Red Sox’s 2025 season came to an end with a painful elimination loss to the New York Yankees, but the bigger storyline looming over the franchise is the uncertain future of star infielder Alex Bregman. Just an hour after the defeat, Bregman was still in uniform, appearing reluctant to let the moment—and possibly his tenure in Boston—slip away.
Bregman’s Contract Situation
Bregman signed a three-year, $120 million contract with Boston last February, which includes an opt-out after two years. The deal carries $80 million in remaining salary, $40 million of which is deferred. According to insiders, it’s almost certain that the 31-year-old will exercise his opt-out clause, making him a free agent for the second consecutive offseason. Unlike last year, he will enter the market without a qualifying offer attached.
Though his annual average salary of $40 million puts him among the game’s elite earners, Alex Bregman may look for a long-term contract that secures him past the 2027 season.
“I struggle to see him sustaining that level of AAV [annual average value],” an American League executive said. “But the total guarantee should be well north of $80 million.”
Performance and Injury Concerns
Alex Bregman began the season on a high note, earning his third All-Star selection after hitting .299 with 11 home runs, 35 RBIs, and a .938 OPS in just 51 games. However, a right quad strain sidelined him for seven weeks, and his production dipped after his July return. He posted a .250 average with seven homers and 27 RBIs in the second half, with a sharp decline over his final 35 games.
Despite the struggles, Bregman’s leadership and clubhouse presence were felt throughout the season. “Proud of the guys for fighting all year,” he said after the loss. “Remember the feeling, because it sucks. You don’t want to feel it. Take it into your offseason, continue to get better.”
Will Boston Keep Him?
There’s strong belief around the league that a reunion between Bregman and the Red Sox is the most likely outcome. Boston has financial flexibility after shedding Rafael Devers’ contract in a midseason trade and could pursue a long-term deal to keep Bregman at Fenway.
“I think he thinks there is unfinished business there,” an AL executive suggested. “They could restructure something longer-term.”
Still, Alex Bregman’s agent Scott Boras is expected to test the market, with teams like the Detroit Tigers, Chicago Cubs, and even his former Houston Astros keeping an eye on the situation. Detroit, in particular, made an aggressive push last winter with a six-year, $171.5 million offer, while the Cubs put forth a four-year, $120 million deal with multiple opt-outs.
Potential Suitors Beyond Boston
If Bregman explores free agency, the Tigers, Cubs, and possibly the Dodgers or Mariners could emerge as serious contenders. The Blue Jays, who showed interest last offseason, may also re-enter the picture with over $55 million in payroll flexibility.
For Boston, however, the decision is straightforward: pay a premium to keep Alex Bregman as the face of their infield or risk losing him to a rival contender.