The New York Yankees have long been a team synonymous with big moves and even bigger expectations. The Yankees are often at the center of offseason discussions, whether it’s about landing a top-tier free agent or making a bold trade. As 2024 progresses and the Yankees’ quest for another championship intensifies, a new development has caught the attention of the baseball world. With the shocking news surrounding the Chicago Cubs and their potential pursuit of Alex Bregman, there is growing speculation that the Yankees should take a hard look at the Astros’ third baseman and offer him a lucrative deal—possibly as high as $26 million per year.
But what exactly is driving this idea, and why does Bregman make so much sense for the Yankees?
### **The Cubs’ Shocking Move**
Before diving into why the Yankees should consider making a move for Bregman, it’s important to understand the surprising turn of events involving the Chicago Cubs. The Cubs, who have been somewhat of a sleeper team in recent years, are reportedly eyeing significant upgrades for their roster in 2025. After finishing just shy of postseason contention in 2024, the Cubs are looking to make a splash in the free agent market.
According to multiple sources, the Cubs are planning to aggressively pursue a superstar third baseman to solidify their lineup and add depth to their roster. The name at the top of their wish list? **Alex Bregman**. The news sent ripples through the baseball world, as many had assumed Bregman would be staying with the Houston Astros for the long haul. Bregman has been a key player for the Astros for years, winning multiple Gold Gloves and Silver Sluggers, and being a fixture in their lineup during their recent World Series runs.
However, rumors of the Cubs’ interest in Bregman have put the MLB market on notice, prompting teams like the Yankees to reconsider their roster-building strategies for 2025.
### **Why the Yankees Should Make a Play for Alex Bregman**
As soon as the Cubs’ interest in Bregman surfaced, many baseball insiders started questioning whether the Yankees could—and should—make a move to sign the dynamic third baseman. With the Yankees in a position to make serious upgrades to their roster, particularly on the offensive side, Bregman could be the perfect fit. Here’s why:
#### **1. Bregman’s Bat: An Immediate Upgrade**
Alex Bregman has been a force at the plate for years, and in many ways, his offensive contributions are what set him apart from other third baseman on the market. In 2024, Bregman posted a .270 batting average with 30 home runs and 95 RBIs, showcasing his power and ability to drive in runs consistently. Over the course of his career, Bregman has proven to be one of the best all-around hitters in the league, combining patience with power and the ability to come through in clutch situations.
For the Yankees, whose offense has been a source of frustration in recent years, Bregman could be the catalyst they need to bring their lineup to life. With Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton in the middle of the order, Bregman would add another dimension, giving the Yankees another elite hitter to work with. While Judge has been the face of the Yankees’ offense, Bregman would offer protection in the lineup, making the Yankees’ offense more dangerous across the board.
What’s also appealing about Bregman is his consistency. Unlike some of the Yankees’ recent acquisitions, Bregman has been a steady force at the plate year after year. He is a disciplined hitter who can avoid slumps, which has been a significant issue for New York in recent seasons. Adding a reliable bat like Bregman’s could be the solution to the Yankees’ offensive woes, especially when considering the volatility of players like Stanton and Josh Donaldson.
#### **2. Defensive Excellence: A Stabilizing Presence at Third Base**
In addition to his prowess with the bat, Bregman is also known for his defensive ability at third base. A former Gold Glove winner, Bregman is consistently one of the best defensive players at his position. His ability to make both routine and spectacular plays makes him an asset on the field, especially in a stadium like Yankee Stadium, where defense is often overlooked in favor of the home run ball.
For the Yankees, who have seen inconsistency at third base in recent seasons, Bregman could be the stabilizing force they need. Whether it’s making a critical stop with a runner in scoring position or turning a double play, Bregman would offer the Yankees a level of defensive reliability that they have been lacking at third base. With his range, arm strength, and agility, Bregman would complement the Yankees’ infield and give their pitching staff more confidence when dealing with opposing hitters.
#### **3. Championship Pedigree: A Proven Winner**
One of the most appealing aspects of Bregman’s game is his experience on the big stage. A key contributor to the Houston Astros’ 2017 World Series championship team and their subsequent appearances in the postseason, Bregman knows what it takes to win at the highest level. In a city like New York, where the stakes are always high, the Yankees need players who thrive in pressure-packed situations, and Bregman has shown time and time again that he can rise to the occasion.
Given the Yankees’ own aspirations to return to championship contention, bringing in a player with Bregman’s winning pedigree could be a game-changer. The Yankees have been knocked out of the postseason in recent years without truly getting over the hump, and adding Bregman could provide the leadership and experience needed to guide them through the intense moments of a postseason run. He’s battle-tested, and he would bring a winning mentality to a locker room that desperately needs it.
#### **4. The Financial Considerations: A $26 Million Deal Makes Sense**
The question many will ask is: Can the Yankees afford Alex Bregman? After all, Bregman is expected to be one of the most sought-after free agents on the market, with potential offers reaching into the high $20 million-per-year range. However, for a team like the Yankees—who have no issue spending to get the best talent—it makes perfect sense to offer Bregman a deal in the range of $26 million annually.
The Yankees have significant financial flexibility in 2025, especially if they make moves to clear some of their payroll. The departure of veterans like Donaldson and others could free up valuable space, making Bregman’s $26 million annual salary a reasonable and manageable commitment. Considering the potential return on investment in terms of offensive production and leadership, a $26 million deal for Bregman could be a bargain in the long run.
Furthermore, given the Yankees’ financial capabilities and their willingness to spend on elite players, a move for Bregman would signal their intent to be aggressive in improving the team’s overall talent and competitiveness in the AL East.
### **Conclusion: A Smart Move for the Yankees**
With the Chicago Cubs reportedly eyeing Alex Bregman as a key target in the 2025 offseason, the New York Yankees are being urged to take action and make a serious play for the star third baseman. Bregman offers everything the Yankees need: an elite bat, top-tier defense, postseason experience, and leadership. His addition to the Yankees’ roster could solidify their lineup, shore up their defense, and make them a much more formidable contender in the AL.
A $26 million offer to Bregman seems not only reasonable but necessary for a team like the Yankees, who are built to win championships. If they can add Bregman’s talent to their roster, it could be the final piece in their quest for another World Series title. With the Cubs making waves in their pursuit of the Astros star, the Yankees must act quickly to secure Bregman’s services—and ensure that they don’t miss out on a once-in-a-generation talent.