Red Sox Targeting Top Free Agent After Alex Bregman Exit

The MLB offseason just got a lot more interesting. Alex Bregman landed a massive deal in Chicago, and it’s already sending ripples across the league—especially in Boston.

With Bregman off the board, everyone’s eyes turned to Bo Bichette. He’s easily one of the most intriguing names left on the market.

This article takes a look at how the Red Sox fit into Bichette’s market. There are some real financial and positional challenges, and it could shake up Boston’s infield for 2026 and beyond.

Bregman’s Deal Changes the Market

Alex Bregman agreed to a five-year, $175 million contract with the Chicago Cubs. That’s not just another big signing—it’s a domino that might set off a chain reaction.

The deal includes a full no-trade clause and zero opt-outs, so both sides are in it for the long haul. That’s a pretty clear message.

Bregman’s contract reset expectations for elite infield bats. Almost immediately, veteran MLB insider Bob Nightengale said the Boston Red Sox would pivot their focus to Bo Bichette.

Why Boston Pivoted So Quickly

The Red Sox had been loosely connected to Bregman earlier this offseason. Chicago’s aggressive move shut that down.

Boston’s got money to spend and wants a middle-of-the-order hitter. They look ready to chase the next-best option.

Bo Bichette: A Premium Bat Still on the Board

Bichette’s name has come up in Boston rumors all winter. It’s not hard to see why.

He’s just 27 years old and already one of the most accomplished hitters in the game. He’s right in his prime.

In seven seasons with the Toronto Blue Jays, Bichette put up a .294 batting average, 111 home runs, and an .806 OPS. He’s a two-time All-Star and, honestly, one of the best bats left on the free-agent market. Only Kyle Tucker is in his league.

The $300 Million Question

Bichette reportedly wants a deal in the ballpark of $300 million. That’s a huge ask, even for Boston.

The Red Sox have spent big lately, but that kind of money means they need to be absolutely sure about performance and positional fit.

Boston’s Infield Puzzle

This is where things get messy. The Red Sox already have a pretty crowded infield, so adding Bichette wouldn’t be simple.

Trevor Story is locked in at either shortstop or second base, depending on how things shake out. Over at first, Triston Casas should see plenty of action, and Wilson Contreras might get some time there too.

The Marcelo Mayer Factor

Boston’s top prospect, Marcelo Mayer, could get a real shot during spring training. Maybe he wins a starting job on the left side of the infield.

But is Mayer ready to play every day in the big leagues? Nobody seems totally sure.

If Mayer or another young player steps up, Boston might only have one real opening for someone like Bichette.

Positional Fit Remains a Concern

Bichette’s defensive profile is another hurdle. He’s only played shortstop in the majors, nothing else.

Any team signing him would need to figure out if he can handle second or third base. That’s not a small thing to ask.

For the Red Sox, it’s a big question mark. Asking a guy chasing $300 million to change positions? That’s a risk, especially with so many infield options already in the mix.

What Happens Next?

Boston’s interest in Bo Bichette is real. But there are plenty of obstacles in the way.

The Red Sox have to weigh elite offensive production against a big financial commitment. There’s also some positional uncertainty, plus the question of what to do with their own young talent.

Bregman’s off the board now. Bichette stands as the last true franchise-level infield bat out there.

Will Boston pay his price and finally solve their infield puzzle? That decision could shape the next era of Red Sox baseball.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Red Sox Reportedly Now Targeting This Star After Alex Bregman Exit