The Boston Red Sox haven’t received much news regarding Alex Bregman’s potential return, but a recent update could give them an edge in negotiations with his agent, Scott Boras.
Fansided’s Mark Powell suggests that Bregman’s market isn’t as strong as expected, meaning he and Boras may not secure the huge deal they’re hoping for.
Boras usually waits until late in the offseason before advising clients to sign, but this year’s market is unusually slow.
If he waits too long, Bregman and other Boras clients may have to settle for shorter contracts and re-enter free agency in their mid-30s, which would likely reduce their value regardless of their stats. Powell notes that after a 3.5 bWAR season in just 114 games, Bregman should take the best deal available.
Last season, Bregman hit .273/.360/.462 with 28 doubles, 18 home runs, and 62 RBIs—solid numbers but not necessarily what a $170 million, five-year deal would demand.
Given the current market conditions, Boston could hold the advantage. Bregman enjoyed his time with the team and probably wants to stay. A mid- to long-term deal—around three or four years with options—might be enough to bring him back to the Red Sox. Fansided hopes the team acts quickly to make an offer to his camp.