Red Sox Mull Bregman Return, Trade, or Extension

Boston Red Sox All-Star third baseman Alex Bregman, out with a quad strain since late May, is expected to return before the All-Star break, according to manager Alex Cora. Bregman, who signed a three-year, $120 million contract with an opt-out after 2025, was batting .299 with 11 homers before his injury. His imminent return comes as Boston sits one game out of a Wild Card spot, heightening the impact of his activation on the team's playoff chances. If the Red Sox cannot agree to an extension with Bregman by the trade deadline, he may be traded, with the Mariners, Tigers, and Brewers listed as potential destinations. Masataka Yoshida has also returned from the injured list to debut as designated hitter, complicating roster decisions for young players like Marcelo Mayer. The team's upcoming moves—extending, trading Bregman, or adjusting the roster—will shape its season's direction.