Alex Bregman Rumors: Blue Jays Have 'Strongest Interest' amid Red Sox, Tigers Buzz

The Toronto Blue Jays have struggled to land a big-name free agent despite their aggressive pursuits, but they're reportedly turning their attention to a veteran slugger.

Bob Nightengale of USA Today reported that the Blue Jays "have shown the strongest interest" in free-agent third baseman Alex Bregman. However, it was pointed out that the Boston Red Sox and Detroit Tigers are also in pursuit of the two-time All-Star.

Nightengale noted that the Houston Astros offered Bregman a six-year, $156 million deal in hopes of retaining him but moved on once talks stalled. The two-time World Series champion "is drawing plenty of interest, but just not at the $200 million price range," Nightengale stated.

The Blue Jays have deep pockets that could meet Bregman's demands, as Nightengale pointed out that they offered more than $700 million to star outfielder Juan Soto before he signed with the New York Mets.

However, Toronto is far from a lock to land Bregman, as Nightengale questioned, "How much more do they have to pay him than the next highest bidder with their high tax rates and distance from his home in Phoenix?"

The Blue Jays are hoping to bounce back from a 74-88 finish to the 2024 season, so they will need to add some talent if they hope to keep pace in the competitive AL East.