Good News: Yankees Named a Top ‘Landing Spot’ for Projected $210 Million Slugger…
The New York Yankees have emerged as one of the top contenders for Houston Astros third baseman Alex Bregman, who is projected to sign a contract in the $210 million range as he approaches free agency. As Bregman wraps up the final season of his five-year, $100 million contract with the Astros, multiple reports highlight that the Yankees could be a strong landing spot for the two-time All-Star. This pursuit reflects the Yankees’ growing need for an infield upgrade, especially at third base, as they look to bolster their roster ahead of the 2025 season
Why Alex Bregman?
Bregman has long been regarded as one of MLB’s premier third basemen, known for his consistent power at the plate and defensive abilities. From 2018 to 2019, Bregman posted two of the best seasons of his career, hitting over 30 home runs in each year and finishing in the top five for AL MVP voting. Although his performance dipped slightly between 2022 and 2023, Bregman still posted respectable numbers, hitting over 20 home runs and driving in at least 90 RBIs in both seasons
Bregman’s 2024 campaign started slowly, with the third baseman struggling through the early months. By the end of May, he was batting just .219 with a .372 slugging percentage. However, since June, Bregman has turned things around dramatically, posting a .296/.352/.498 slash line and regaining his form as a key offensive threat for Houston This resurgence not only makes him a valuable target but also raises his market value as teams begin preparing for the upcoming offseason.
The Yankees’ Third Base Dilemma
The Yankees’ interest in Bregman stems largely from their lackluster production at third base. Despite making a push for the 2024 postseason, their infield has been a point of concern, particularly at the hot corner. As of mid-August 2024, Yankees’ third basemen had collectively contributed just 1.9 fWAR, ranking them 15th in MLB The team has rotated several players at the position, including Oswaldo Cabrera, Jon Berti, and veteran DJ LeMahieu, but none have delivered consistent results. Jazz Chisholm Jr., who has played 13 games at third base since being acquired by New York, has been the most productive of the group, but even his contribution has not been enough to solidify the position
Gleyber Torres’ potential departure in free agency further complicates matters. Should Torres leave, the Yankees could shift Chisholm to second base, leaving third base open for a player of Bregman’s caliber. This move would not only address a key roster need but would also give the Yankees a much-needed boost in offensive firepower heading into 2025
Financial Considerations
One of the biggest questions surrounding Bregman’s future is the financial commitment it will take to sign him. With the Astros unlikely to match the kind of long-term, high-dollar offers expected from other teams, Bregman’s potential move to New York seems more plausible. Bleacher Report’s Zachary D. Rymer has projected that Bregman could command a contract worth around $210 milli This figuis re, while steep, reflects Bregman’s accomplishments as a two-time World Series champion anon htrack record of consistency.
For the Yankees, this type of financial investment may hinge on other offseason moves, particularly their efforts to retain outfielder Juan Soto. Soto, who has become a key part of New York’s lineup, will likely be another high-priced asset if the team hopes to keep him. Should the Yankees fail to re-sign Soto, their need to land a marquee player like Bregman could become even more pressing
Competition for Bregman
While the Yankees are viewed as one of the top landing spots for Bregman, they are not the only team in the mix. The San Francisco Giants, Seattle Mariners, and Arizona Diamondbacks are also expected to pursue top-tier third basemen in free agency Each of these teams has a clear need at the position and could offer Bregman the type of long-term deal he is seeking.
Additionally, the New York Mets have been mentioned as a potential suitor for Bregman. In March 2024, Joel Sherman of the *New York Post* suggested that the Yankees and Mets could be headed for a bidding war over Bregman, reigniting financial competition between the two New York rivals The Mets, who are also in need of infield upgrades, could be a formidable competitor if they decide to pursue Bregman aggressively.
Bregman’s Market Value
Bregman’s ability to turn around his 2024 season has significantly bolstered his free-agent prospects. After a sluggish start, his mid-season resurgence has put him back in the spotlight as one of the premier third basemen available in free agency. His season-long stats are expected to finish in line with his career averages, which include a .281/.377/.515 slash line from 2018 to 2019
Teams looking to sign Bregman will be factoring in not just his offensive abilities but also his experience and leadership. A two-time World Series champion, Bregman has been a cornerstone of the Astros’ success over the past several years. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations, coupled with his defensive reliability, makes him an attractive target for any team looking to solidify its infield.
Conclusion
The New York Yankees are well-positioned to make a serious run at Alex Bregman in free agency, particularly if they need to fill a void at third base. While their ability to sign Bregman may depend on other offseason moves, including the potential re-signing of Juan Soto, the Yankees’ desire to upgrade their infield makes Bregman a prime target. His resurgence in 2024, coupled with his proven track record, ensures that he will be one of the most sought-after free agents heading into the 2025 season. However, with several other teams in the mix, the Yankees will likely face stiff competition in their pursuit of the star third baseman
