Bregman Opts Out, Red Sox Weigh Offseason Moves

Alex Bregman officially opted out of his one-year Red Sox deal and will test free agency; analysts project he could command roughly a five-year, ~$160 million contract, while Boston appears unlikely to match top long-term offers and could turn to prospect Marcelo Mayer at third base. Josh Naylor is expected to sign a long-term deal (projections around four years, $92 million) and will be easier to sign without a qualifying offer. The Yankees are reportedly prepared to aggressively pursue marquee bats — including Kyle Tucker (projections up to a 10-year, $401 million deal) — and may also chase Cody Bellinger, who has opted out and is projected to command roughly $140–$175 million. Boston’s offseason also hinges on decisions about Trevor Story and mutual options for Lucas Giolito and Liam Hendriks, managing a crowded outfield, and other roster moves as the front office balances payroll and production. The Red Sox were boosted by Garrett Crochet’s acquisition and subsequent six-year, $170 million extension — Crochet finished among AL Cy Young finalists and led MLB in innings and strikeouts — underscoring how internal moves and big-money signings will reshape teams’ offseasons.