As the New York Yankees push for a spot in the 2024 MLB postseason, attention is also turning to how their roster will shape up for 2025.
A key focus is on the infield, particularly the third base position. With Gleyber Torres potentially departing in free agency, Houston Astros’ Alex Bregman has emerged as a possible target. The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal recently discussed Bregman and fellow third baseman Matt Chapman, suggesting that the Yankees, along with the Seattle Mariners, Arizona Diamondbacks, and San Francisco Giants, might be in the market for a top-tier third baseman.
Bregman, who is in the final year of a five-year, $100 million contract with the Astros, is expected to command a significant deal as he heads into free agency at age 31. Zachary D. Rymer of Bleacher Report projected that Bregman could land a contract in the $210 million range, though he also predicted that Bregman might ultimately re-sign with Houston.
For the Yankees, adding Bregman would require some infield adjustments. If Torres leaves, Jazz Chisholm Jr. could shift to second base, allowing Bregman to take over at third. The Yankees’ current third-base situation is less than ideal, with a combination of players contributing to a middling 1.9 fWAR at the position as of mid-August.
Bregman’s proven track record, including two seasons with 30-plus home runs and two top-five finishes in AL MVP voting, makes him an attractive option for New York.
However, the Yankees’ pursuit of Bregman may also depend on their ability to retain outfielder Juan Soto, another key piece of their lineup. Should they lose out on Soto, their need for a marquee signing like Bregman could become even more pressing.
Bregman’s performance in 2024 has been a tale of two halves. After a sluggish start, he has rebounded strongly since June, raising his season statistics to levels more in line with his career norms.
This resurgence will likely bolster his value in free agency, where the Astros and other teams will need to decide how far they’re willing to go to secure the two-time World Series champion’s services.
