PHOENIX — As the Arizona Diamondbacks have emerged as an unexpected potential landing spot for third baseman Alex Bregman, there is growing belief that the reported interest may be a strategic move for the All-Star.
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Sep 30, 2025; Bronx, New York, USA; Boston Red Sox third base Alex Bregman (2) hits an RBI double during the ninth inning against the New York Yankees during game one of the Wildcard round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
The Boston Red Sox had hoped to retain Bregman, but he opted out of a three-year, $120 million contract earlier this month. This week, speculation intensified across baseball when reports surfaced that Arizona had become a “surprise entrant” in the market for the All-Star infielder.
However, Arizona Sports radio host John Gambadoro described the Diamondbacks’ chances of signing Bregman as a “long shot,” suggesting the interest could be leveraged by Bregman’s agent, Scott Boras, to drive up the third baseman’s market value.
Boston Red Sox third baseman Alex Bregman fields his position against the Detroit Tigers at Comerica Park, May 14, 2025. © Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Bregman is a three-time All-Star and has been among baseball’s top third basemen in recent seasons. Before joining Boston, he spent the majority of his career with the Houston Astros, where he won two World Series titles and became a cornerstone of the franchise.
His combination of offensive production and defense has made Bregman one of the most intriguing free agents on the market. Some analysts project he could receive a contract exceeding $170 million over five years.
Boston Red Sox third baseman Alex Bregman bats against the Detroit Tigers during the first inning at Comerica Park, May 14, 2025. © Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
While a deal with Arizona is not impossible, it would come with significant financial challenges. With second baseman Ketel Marte already under an expensive long-term contract, the Diamondbacks would face difficult roster and payroll decisions to accommodate Bregman while keeping their core intact.
Still, Arizona’s connection to another high-profile free agent has fueled intrigue.
Ahead of the 2025 season, the Diamondbacks shocked the league by signing Cy Young Award winner Corbin Burnes, a move influenced in part by his personal ties to the Valley. Right-hander Merrill Kelly, who recently re-signed with the club, also has strong ties to the state.
What is the % chance that the Diamondbacks land Alex Bregman in free agency?
Let’s see what @Plesac19 thinks 👀#MLBTonight | @SieraSantos pic.twitter.com/bp6k0I0pRk
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) December 18, 2025
Bregman, who lives in Arizona, could view that familiarity as a consideration, even if the Diamondbacks remain an unlikely destination.
Whether Arizona’s involvement proves to be a legitimate pursuit or just leverage for the third baseman, it’s possible to see Bregman play in the Valley next year.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
