Overview
- ESPN reported Bregman agreed to a five-year, $175 million contract with Chicago, with subsequent reporting indicating roughly $70 million is deferred to reduce the competitive-balance tax impact.
- Boston’s bid was reported around $160–$165 million with significant deferrals, and sources said a no-trade clause refusal was a sticking point as the club expressed disappointment over losing Bregman.
- Bregman’s arrival creates an infield surplus for the Cubs, elevating the possibility of trades involving Nico Hoerner or Matt Shaw, though Chicago is not obligated to move either player.
- The Red Sox are expected to pivot to free agent Bo Bichette as their primary infield target, with the Phillies scheduled to meet him Monday via video call, according to The Athletic’s reporting.
- Analysts expect Bregman’s deal to lift price expectations for the remaining elite bats on the market, including Bichette, Kyle Tucker and Cody Bellinger.