Alex Bregman Signs 5-Year, $175M Contract with Chicago Cubs

The National League Central just got a jolt. The Chicago Cubs have landed one of baseball’s most respected infielders, and it’s not a quiet move by any stretch.

This article breaks down Alex Bregman’s blockbuster free-agent deal, what it could mean for the Cubs’ roster, and how Bregman’s arrival shakes things up for both Chicago and his old club in Boston.

A Franchise-Altering Deal for the Cubs

The Cubs just made their loudest statement of the offseason by signing Alex Bregman to a five-year, $175 million contract. Sources say the deal comes with a club-record $35 million annual average value, a full no-trade clause, and no opt-outs.

For a team that’s usually balanced financial caution with competitiveness, this contract feels like a real pivot. Chicago had gone after Bregman aggressively a year ago and missed out. They weren’t letting that happen again.

Outbidding the Red Sox

Boston reportedly put $165 million over five years on the table, but Chicago pushed past that mark and got their man. Bregman had already bet on himself by opting out of a $40 million player option with the Red Sox. In hindsight, that move looks pretty smart.

Bregman’s 2025 Season: Production and Leadership

At 31, Bregman’s still a force on both sides of the ball. His one season in Boston showed off his resilience and professionalism, especially on a young roster looking for a steady hand.

Strong Start, Then a Setback

Bregman started the 2025 campaign on fire, slashing .299/.385/.553 with 11 homers before a quad injury knocked him out from May 24 through July 11. Even after missing a chunk of time, he wrapped up the year with:

He played strong defense, too, and that’s got to count for something.

Roster Implications in Chicago

Bregman’s arrival immediately stirs up questions about the Cubs’ infield. Chicago suddenly has a logjam of capable infielders, which could mean more depth—or maybe a trade or two.

Tough Decisions Ahead

The Cubs might look to trade Nico Hoerner or Matt Shaw to clear space. Then again, maybe they just keep all three and let the competition play out.

Either way, Bregman brings stability next to shortstop Dansby Swanson. That’s a solid veteran core, especially on a roster with several guys nearing free agency.

Why Bregman Is Worth the Investment

Bregman’s résumé really does speak for itself. He’s delivered steady production on some of baseball’s biggest stages.

A Proven Winner

Here’s what he’s done so far:

Bregman’s known for his baseball IQ, his prep, and his leadership. Those are the intangibles that can change the mood in a clubhouse, and it’s hard not to appreciate that.

Boston’s Consolation Prize

Losing Bregman definitely stings for Boston. Still, the Red Sox will get a compensatory draft pick after the fourth round.

It’s not much for a star of his caliber, but hey, that’s just how modern free agency works now.

For the Cubs, though, this move isn’t about compensation or roster math. Signing Alex Bregman feels like a statement—Chicago wants to win now, and they’re betting on him to help lead the way.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Sources: Bregman to Cubs on 5-year, $175M deal