Sources: Bregman to Cubs on 5-year, $175M deal

"Bregman got off to a fast start in Boston last season, hitting .299/.385/.553 with 11 home runs and 35 RBIs before suffering a quad injury that sidelined him from May 24 to July 11. Off the field, he was praised for his veteran leadership on a young Red Sox team that lost in three games to the New York Yankees in the American League wild card series."

"The Cubs' fascination with Bregman had as much to do with his leadership traits as it does his pull-happy offensive approach that should fit well at Wrigley Field. As the Cubs try to remain competitive in a loaded NL this season and beyond, they'll turn to Bregman -- who is renowned for his baseball IQ, interpersonal skills and work ethic -- to help shepherd them."

"Bregman, who will be 32 on March 30, opted out of a $40 million player option with the Boston Red Sox to hit the market again after his first foray into free agency last year. And while the Cubs wound up short in 2025, they offered Bregman a club-record $35 million a year to lock down his services, sources told ESPN."

Alex Bregman signed a five-year, $175 million deal with the Chicago Cubs that includes a full no-trade clause and no opt-outs. Bregman opted out of a $40 million player option with the Boston Red Sox to re-enter free agency and will be 32 on March 30. He began last season hitting .299/.385/.553 with 11 home runs and 35 RBIs before a quad injury sidelined him from May 24 to July 11. Bregman was praised for veteran leadership on a young Red Sox team that lost in the AL wild-card series. Chicago may trade Nico Hoerner or Matt Shaw to create roster space but could also retain both players.

Read at ESPN.com