The Chicago Cubs’ search for a big-time hitter remains active, and new reporting indicates they’ve already taken concrete steps by doing due diligence on free-agent third baseman.
According to FanSided MLB insider Robert Murray, the Cubs held a Zoom meeting with top star “a few weeks ago.” Murray added that the veteran has also met virtually with several other teams this offseason.
That detail matters because it serves as a clear sign the Cubs are still in the mix, even as the upper end of the free-agent market has moved slowly toward the end of December.
Key points
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The Cubs conducted a Zoom meeting with Alex Bregman, per Robert Murray.
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Bregman is coming off a season with the Boston Red Sox and opted out of his contract.
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Chicago has been linked to renewed interest throughout the month, while Boston remains widely viewed as a natural fit.
Cubs’ interest in Bregman appears legitimate and ongoing
The Cubs have been connected to Bregman multiple times this offseason, with earlier December reports suggesting he was firmly on their radar. The Zoom meeting represents the strongest confirmation yet that Chicago is at least evaluating contract terms, roster fit, and potential role.
Bregman, 31, is coming off a solid season in Boston. He appeared in 114 games, hitting 18 home runs with 62 RBIs and an .821 OPS before opting out of his deal.
How Bregman could impact the Cubs’ infield
A serious pursuit of Bregman would go beyond simply adding a third baseman. As previously reported by Heavy, installing Bregman at third could give the Cubs flexibility to move Matt Shaw around the infield, while potentially making Nico Hoerner a trade candidate if Chicago opts to reshape the roster after landing a premium bat.
That’s why the reported meeting is noteworthy—it suggests the front office is already weighing key roster questions:
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Where would Shaw fit if Bregman signs?
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Would a major addition create or require a trade elsewhere?
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How aggressive is ownership willing to be on years and dollars to compete in a bidding war?
Market value and why negotiations feel stalled
Bregman’s market is influenced by last offseason’s negotiations. MLB Trade Rumors reported the Detroit Tigers made a strong offer a year ago—six years and $171.5 million, including deferrals and an opt-out. That figure provides a reference point for Bregman and agent Scott Boras, while teams appear content to wait, especially with multiple suitors still involved.
Timing could be critical. Once one top bat comes off the board, the rest of the market often accelerates. By meeting early, the Cubs have positioned themselves if Bregman’s camp begins narrowing its list of finalists.
The Cubs don’t need a splashy offseason to validate their interest, but they do need direction. If Bregman’s camp starts trimming the field—or if Boston pushes to close a deal—Chicago will have to choose its path: intensify its pursuit, pivot to another hitter, or shift resources toward pitching.