MLB Rumors: Alex Bregman's $120M Red Sox Contract Has 'Significant' Deferred Money

The Boston Red Sox are reportedly taking a page out of the Los Angeles Dodgers' book.

Alex Bregman's three-year, $120 million deal has "significant" deferrals, according to ESPN's Buster Olney, who reported that the "present-day value of his contract is expected to be assessed in the range of $90 million for three years."

Bregman's deal also includes a pair of opt-outs after the 2025 and 2026 seasons, allowing him the opportunity to re-test the market if he so desires.

The star third baseman had his share of offers. According to ESPN's Jeff Passan, "The Red Sox's [offer] had the big number—$40 million a year before deferrals. The Detroit Tigers' offer had years and dollars: Six years and $171.5 million, also with deferrals. The Chicago Cubs' offer at four years for $120 million had neither years, dollars or AAV. Tough to win when you trail all three."

Bregman, 30, is a two-time champion, two-time All-Star, was a Silver Slugger in 2019 and won a Gold Glove last season. He hit .260 with 26 homers, 75 RBI, 79 runs and a .768 OPS, a slight down year for him but still a nice upgrade to Boston's infield, especially given his ability to hit second base.

He's also fared quite well at Fenway Park throughout his career:

So the Red Sox got their man, and reportedly were able to do so while spreading out the brunt of the financial hit into future years. For a franchise that has gone three seasons without a winning record or playoff appearance, it was the sort of splash that was needed, especially as Boston looks to keep pace with the New York Yankees and Baltimore Orioles in the AL East.