The New York Yankees are once again in play for a big-name free agent this offseason. Former Astros villain Alex Bregman is making $40 million this year and is expected to opt out of his contract after the current season, which would make him a prime target for the Bronx Bombers.
Bregman has performed at an All-Star level so far this season, with a .297/.381/.554 slash line, 11 home runs, and 35 RBIs. He will be a highly sought-after free agent, but there are significant hurdles to overcome before he could join the Yankees. Bregman’s time in Houston is a major issue, given the team’s involvement in a sign-stealing scandal that tainted their legacy.
The Astros were eliminated by the Yankees in the ALCS during both 2017 and 2019 playoffs, and the team received intense scrutiny for their actions. As a result, many Yankees fans remain hostile towards Bregman, who played a significant role in the scandal. While the idea of signing him would be attractive to some, it’s unclear if Yankees fans would welcome him with open arms.
Bregman currently plays for the Boston Red Sox, and his decision to opt out will likely make him an even more desirable free agent market. The Yankees are among the top contenders to land Bregman, along with other teams like the Tigers, Astros, Phillies, and Dodgers. However, the path forward is uncertain due to the lingering tension between Bregman and the Yankees.
Source: https://www.si.com/mlb/yankees/news/new-york-yankees-landing-spot-former-astros-villain-alex-bregman