Alex Bregman Reportedly a 'Near Certainty' to Opt Out of Red Sox Contract, Test MLB FA

Boston Red Sox third baseman Alex Bregman is a "near certainty" to opt out of his three-year, $120 million contract, per Mark Feinsand of MLB.com.

Bregman signed with the Red Sox last offseason after playing nine seasons with the Houston Astros. The 31-year-old hit .273 (.821 OPS) with 18 home runs and 62 RBI in an injury-shortened 114-game campaign that saw Bregman miss a month-and-a-half with a right quadriceps strain.

Still, the reigning AL Gold Glove winner at third base excelled for a Red Sox team that improved by eight wins and made the AL Wild Card Series.

As for what his future contract could look like, an American League executive thought it might be difficult to get a deal with a $40 million annual average value like the last one. However, he should still break the bank.

"I struggle to see him sustaining that level of AAV [annual average value]," the executive told Feinsand. "But the total guarantee should be well north of $80 million."

It's certainly possible that Boston re-signs Bregman, and AL executive thought he could stay there.

"I think he thinks there is unfinished business there," the executive told Feinsand. "They could restructure something longer-term."

Boston has the talent in place to be postseason contenders for a while thanks in part to players like ace pitcher Garrett Crochet and outfielder Roman Anthony, who impressed in his brief time in the majors before suffering a season-ending left oblique strain.

Of course, Bregman could simply find a great deal on the market and leave town.

"He probably tests the whole market unless Boston pays a premium," another AL executive told Feinsand. That executive thought Bregman would get a "front-loaded five-year contract."

Ultimately, Bregman's solid bat, glove and pedigree of success over his career, which includes three All-Star Game appearances, a Silver Slugger and two top-five MVP finishes, should land him another strong payday. His status is certainly one to watch this hot stove season, which should included a loaded infielder class featuring the likes of Pete Alonso, Eugenio Suárez, Bo Bichette and Luis Arráez.