Overview
- Bregman agreed to a five-year, $175 million contract with Chicago, with reporting indicating about $70 million is deferred.
- Boston’s offer was reportedly five years and $165 million with heavy deferrals, and team figures described “real disappointment” at losing the bidding.
- Negotiation sticking points for the Red Sox included the timing of deferred payments and the absence of a no-trade clause.
- The signing creates an infield surplus for the Cubs, fueling speculation that Nico Hoerner or Matt Shaw could be trade candidates.
- Boston is expected to pivot to top free-agent infielder Bo Bichette, while Bregman’s deal boosts the Cubs’ payroll and strengthens their NL Central outlook.