The New York Yankees are eager to re-sign Juan Soto, but the team is also exploring alternative options in case the superstar opts to leave via free agency. According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, one such alternative is Houston Astros star Alex Bregman, a key infielder the Yankees are considering. Nightengale reported that if Soto departs, the Yankees could pivot to signing first baseman Christian Walker, adding either Bregman or Willy Adames to play third base, shifting Jazz Chisholm to second, and potentially trading for Cubs center fielder Cody Bellinger. The team could then use any extra financial flexibility to pursue top pitchers like Burnes, Fried, or Snell.
Bregman, a two-time World Series champion, is expected to command a significant contract. While Spotrac estimates his market value at a four-year, $119 million deal, Bregman is reportedly seeking a much larger sum—around $200 million. This represents a substantial increase from his current five-year, $100 million contract. The Houston Astros are said to be interested in bringing Bregman back on a six-year, $156 million deal, but Bregman’s high asking price may make his future uncertain.
The Yankees are not the only team in pursuit of Soto, with rivals such as the New York Mets and Boston Red Sox also in the mix. Nightengale notes that MLB executives view the Mets as the frontrunners to sign Soto, citing their financial power under owner Steve Cohen. The Yankees, on the other hand, have set a firm budget that may limit their ability to outbid the Mets. The Toronto Blue Jays are also mentioned as a potential dark horse, though their priority may shift if they lose out on Soto.
As for Bregman, his status as a two-time All-Star, World Series champion, and former Gold Glove winner means he will have several suitors, even if he isn’t in the same league as Soto in terms of competition. ESPN’s Jeff Passan has reported that the Astros may be motivated to keep Bregman long-term, especially given concerns about potentially losing outfielder Kyle Tucker to free agency in the near future. In addition to Houston, the Detroit Tigers and Toronto Blue Jays are also seen as possible destinations for Bregman, with the Tigers offering the possibility of a reunion with former Astros manager AJ Hinch.
With both Soto and Bregman likely to attract significant attention in free agency, the Yankees face a critical offseason decision. If they lose out on Soto, Bregman could be an attractive alternative to bolster their lineup, but the competition for both players will be fierce. The Yankees will need to carefully weigh their options and budget as they navigate this high-stakes free agency period.
