The Mets continue to be linked to top free agents in the 2024 winter.
The club is reported to have a “strong interest” in third baseman Alex Bregman, according to Ari Alexander of Houston’s KPRC2’s Network (NBC).
Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports
Bregman would be another addition to a Mets’ club that is hoping to return to the National League Championship Series and beyond in 2025. The righty slashed .260/.315/.453 with 26 homers and 30 doubles in 145 games, along with his highest HardHit percentage (40.7) since 2019.
Along with his impressive offensive numbers, Bregman also brings gold glove defense at the hot corner. He ranked in the 91st percentile for Outs Above Average (6) in 2024 and was rewarded with his first gold glove at third.
Whether or not the Mets move on their interest is to be seen. Bob Nightengale of USA Today reported earlier this offseason that Bregman was seeking an eight-year deal, north of $200 million. It seems high, but, if the Mets want Bregman, Alexander reports that the cost wouldn’t stop them.
“In terms of affording a potential $200 million deal for Bregman after the Juan Soto signing,” Alexander wrote,” those within the industry characterize the Mets as more interested in getting what they want than trying to adhere to any sort of budget.”
ALEX BREGMAN WALK-OFF HOME RUN! pic.twitter.com/z0gNHNmaQR
— Talkin’ Baseball (@TalkinBaseball_) July 28, 2024
A deal of that AAV and length might seem outlandish for the soon-to-be 31-year-old, but Bregman is a Scott Boras client and could hold out until his market rises.
The Yankees, Red Sox, and Astros were also named by Alexander as the other teams in the “strong four” category to sign Bregman, but the Astros are most likely out after trading Kyle Tucker to the Cubs for a package including Isaac Paredes.
Before the trade for Paredes, Alexander reported the Astros had a six-year, $156 million contract on the table for Bregman ($26 million AAV).
The Tigers were linked as an interested team as well, and a reunion with former manager AJ Hinch is a possibility for Bregman.
If the Mets were to add Bregman, it could also spell an end to Pete Alonso‘s tenure in Queens. Bregman would presumably shift over to third base, sending Mark Vientos to first.
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