Top 5 Hitters Red Sox Should Pursue Post-Bregman Exit

The Boston Red Sox entered the offseason with their sights set on a cornerstone infielder. That plan fell apart when Alex Bregman reportedly inked a five-year, $175 million deal with the Chicago Cubs.

Now Boston faces a tough pivot. Bregman’s exit from the free-agent pool means the Sox have to rethink their strategy, both for this season and down the road.

Let’s take a closer look at how the Red Sox might try to replace Bregman’s production and presence in the clubhouse.

Red Sox Forced to Adjust After Missing on Bregman

Bregman seemed like a dream fit for Boston: right-handed power, postseason experience, and a respected leader. Losing out on him leaves a real gap—not just in the numbers, but in the culture, too.

For a franchise hoping to get back to perennial contender status, sitting still isn’t really on the table. The front office has to balance urgency with some caution, so they’ll check both the free-agent and trade markets.

They want to replace Bregman’s offense, keep the roster flexible, and avoid gutting the farm system. That’s a tall order, but it’s where things stand.

Bo Bichette Tops the Free-Agent Board

Bo Bichette is now the best free-agent infielder left. He’s just 27, fits Boston’s timeline, and his bat’s legit.

Bichette bounced back in 2025 with a sharp .311/.357/.483 slash line, reminding everyone he’s still an All-Star. In Boston, he’d probably move to second base, keeping Trevor Story at shortstop and giving Marcelo Mayer time to grow at third.

That setup could offer immediate production and some long-term security, though it’s not a lock to work out perfectly.

Eugenio Suárez Brings Power, With Caveats

If Boston wants to chase power, Eugenio Suárez is tough to ignore. He’s 34 but just blasted a career-high 49 home runs in 2025 and has hit 163 homers in the last five years.

But there are red flags. His on-base percentage slipped to .298 last season, and at his age, decline is a real worry.

Suárez might give the lineup some pop, but he’s probably a short-term fix. He doesn’t really replace Bregman’s all-around game.

Trade Market Could Offer Better Balance

Boston’s recent moves suggest they’re just as likely to make a trade as sign a free agent. They’ve already worked with the St. Louis Cardinals, landing Sonny Gray and Willson Contreras.

That relationship might come in handy again.

Brendan Donovan: A Bregman-Style Alternative

Brendan Donovan checks a lot of the same boxes as Bregman. The 28-year-old has a career .282/.361/.411 slash line and gets on base a ton.

He’s versatile in the field, giving Alex Cora plenty of lineup options. The catch? Donovan’s young and under team control, so the Cardinals would want a hefty prospect haul to even consider moving him.

Nolan Arenado: Veteran Leadership at a Discount?

If the Cardinals want to cut payroll, Nolan Arenado might be available. His 2025 numbers (.237/.289/.377) weren’t great, but he still brings elite defense and serious leadership to any clubhouse.

With two years and $42 million left on his deal, St. Louis might care more about shedding salary than getting a big return.

Isaac Paredes as a Long-Term Play

Isaac Paredes from the Houston Astros is a more forward-thinking choice. He’s under team control through 2028 and hit .254/.352/.458 with 20 homers in just 102 games last year.

Paredes has solid walk and strikeout rates, which suggests his production could stick. Of course, prying him away from Houston would cost Boston plenty.

Boston’s Likely Path Forward

The Red Sox look ready to mix things up with a blend of strategies. Here’s what’s probably on their mind:

 
Here is the source article for this story: 5 Hitters Red Sox Should Target After Losing Alex Bregman