Cubs Weighing Alex Bregman Pursuit Amid Front Office Uncertainty
As the Chicago Cubs kick off spring training, all eyes are on president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer and his next potential moveβpossibly signing All-Star third baseman Alex Bregman. The Cubs, poised to be favorites in the National League Central, still have a glaring hole at third base, and Bregman could be the final piece in a roster built for a deep postseason run.
Hoyer has been careful not to comment directly on Bregman, but the Cubsβ front office has shown interest in upgrading their infield. Despite an already competitive payroll approaching the $241 million luxury-tax threshold, ownership has yet to clarify how much financial flexibility remains for further acquisitions.
The Cubsβ offseason was marked by significant investments, including acquiring Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros to fortify the lineup. However, third base remains a pressing concern. The teamβs in-house options lack major league experience, making Bregman an attractive solution. Over his nine-year career, Bregman has posted a .272/.366/.483 slash line, along with two World Series titles and a reputation as a clubhouse leader.
Hoyer, in the final year of his five-year contract, acknowledges the personal and professional weight of the situation. Having been a key part of the Cubsβ 2016 championship team and multiple Red Sox titles, he understands the stakes. “Weβre at a really great point as an organization right now,” Hoyer said. “But, yeah, it feels like thereβs increased pressure. There probably should be.”
If the Cubs are to land Bregman, it will likely require a contract structure similar to Cody Bellingerβs, with short-term flexibility and opt-out clauses. This would help the team manage its budget while remaining competitive for mid-season acquisitions. However, there are concerns about committing to long-term deals beyond the current collective bargaining agreement, which expires in 2026.
With elite defense, strong pitching depth, and a capable manager in Craig Counsell, the Cubs have built a contender. But third base remains their Achillesβ heel. Bregmanβs bat and leadership could be the difference between simply competing in the Central and becoming a true World Series threat. The coming weeks will reveal whether Hoyer and the Cubs can finalize the move that could define their seasonβand perhaps their long-term future.