The New York Yankees are expected to be active in free agency in blockbuster trade, with an insider suggesting they’ll secure a top third baseman. MLB insider Bob Nightengale from *USA Today* predicts that New York will sign another key man, who recently finished a five-year, $100 million contract with the Houston Astros and is one of the leading free-agent hitters on the market.
“Bregman has always thrived in the spotlight and dreamed of performing on a grand stage—there’s none bigger than New York,” Nightengale stated. He mentioned that while both New York teams will compete for him, the Yankees will ultimately win out.
Bregman would fill the starting third baseman role, adding power to the Yankees’ lineup. He hit .260 with 26 home runs and 75 RBIs last season, and he peaked with 41 homers and 112 RBIs in 2019.
Bregman’s addition would also offset the loss of Juan Soto, who Nightengale projects will leave New York for a $630 million, 14-year deal with the Toronto Blue Jays, who have significant funds available.
Replacing Soto with Bregman would be a strong fallback for the Yankees, helping them maintain their status as World Series contenders in 2025.
What Will Bregman Get in Free Agency?
Alex Bregman enters free agency as one of the top available players and is expected to land a multi-year contract. At 30 years old, he’s projected by *MLBTradeRumors* to secure a seven-year deal worth $182 million.
The report notes that Bregman isn’t hitting the market at an ideal time since he’ll turn 31 next season. While this isn’t particularly old for a free agent, it may limit him to a seven-year maximum. “Only two hitters over the past decade—Marcus Semien and Aaron Judge—have signed free-agent deals of seven or more years after reaching free agency in their age-31 season or later,” the article explains. Although Bregman and his agent Scott Boras are likely aiming for a contract over $200 million, achieving that figure could be challenging given his age.
While a seven-year deal remains uncertain, offers of at least six years seem likely. *MLBTradeRumors* also points to Matt Chapman’s recent six-year, $151 million contract extension at age 32 as a benchmark. Given Bregman’s youth and consistent offensive production, he is expected to exceed that.
Bregman, a two-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion, brings experience and a winning pedigree to any team that signs him.
Yankees Will Put Best Foot Forward to Retain Soto
The Yankees are prioritizing efforts to retain star outfielder Juan Soto, whom they acquired in a trade last offseason. Recognized as one of the game’s top players, Soto has become a focal point for Yankees GM Brian Cashman, who emphasized the team’s commitment to re-signing him.
“I spoke with [Soto’s agent] Scott Boras yesterday,” Cashman shared. “We’re very interested in keeping him and will make our best effort. If that leads to re-signing him, great. If not, we’ll have to consider other options, as there are a number of players in this market who could strengthen our roster.”
Soto delivered an impressive season with the Yankees, posting a .288 average along with 41 home runs and 109 RBIs over 157 games.
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