The Chicago Cubs added a major piece to their roster in hopes of returning to the postseason, and while Alex Bregman is new to the clubhouse, he is hardly an unfamiliar figure to the organization.
Chicago signed the veteran third baseman to a five-year, $175 million contract after previously showing interest in him a year earlier. The Cubs had pursued Bregman last offseason, but he instead accepted a three-year, $120 million deal with the Boston Red Sox for the 2025 season that included an opt-out. Once Bregman re-entered free agency, Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer quickly renewed discussions.
Bregman also shares a long-standing connection with Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson. The two have been linked for years as former USA Baseball teammates, top draft-class standouts, and even World Series opponents before now becoming teammates in Chicago.
As the Cubs aim to build on last season’s progress and make a deeper postseason run, Swanson expressed optimism about what Bregman brings beyond his on-field production. He highlighted Bregman’s leadership and ability to elevate those around him, saying players of his caliber help teammates reach levels they may not have previously achieved.
Swanson, who signed a seven-year, $177 million deal with the Cubs in 2022 and made the All-Star team in his first year with the club, has seen his offensive numbers dip since that debut season. Looking ahead, he views Bregman’s presence as an opportunity to push himself further.
According to Swanson, Bregman will present a welcome challenge, both competitively and personally. He believes Bregman’s leadership style and intensity on and off the field will push him to improve and help him become the best version of himself.
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