A seemingly unintentional comment — “Is that the warmup?” — just dropped by Roman Anthony, but has caused a stir across the baseball world as Alex Bregman’s future with the Red Sox hangs in the balance.
“Is that the warmup?” — just four words, but enough to get all eyes on Alex Bregman. With this teaser, Anthony seems to be asking a big question: is Bregman just “warming up,” before finding a new destination, even when his contract with the Red Sox has not been finalized?
Bregman joined the Boston Red Sox in early 2025 with a 3-year, $120 million contract, including an opt-out option after 2025 and 2026.
But according to many sources, he is likely to try his hand in the free market after opting out — despite his stable performance and position at Fenway.
In that context, Roman Anthony’s 4-word statement “Is that the warmup?” was seen as a “bold” statement — both challenging and provocative — aimed at Bregman’s uncertain future and raised the question: is Bregman really “locked in” in Boston, or is he just waiting for the right time to leave?
Immediately after the comment was widely shared, the reaction from the fan community and experts began to boil. Some fans saw it as a “determined” move by the Red Sox, implicitly reminding: “Bregman is not necessarily a priority to keep.”
But many people believe that Anthony — a young, ambitious star — acted too “in the spotlight,” somewhat provocative and disrespectful to his teammates. With Bregman still the main face on the field, this action could cause a rift in the locker room right before the new season.
Experts say: even though it was just a line — but it was a smart message, starting the upcoming contract negotiations — where power, loyalty and “value” of each player will be determined.
Keeping Bregman or letting him go is not a decision based simply on numbers. With the $120 million deal, the Red Sox took a gamble on him — but when he can “opt-out” after the first year, the risk is just as great.
It seems that Roman Anthony, with that statement, wanted to send a clear message: “If you don’t renew — make way for the next generation who is ready to contribute.” Perhaps the Red Sox are preparing for a post-Bregman scenario — one in which young, hungry, and ready-to-prove stars will take over.
With Bregman’s contract set to expire, just one comment — “Is that the warmup?” — raises concerns: will the Red Sox stay together, or will they trade their reputation for the “next generation”?
If Bregman leaves, Rome Anthony is just the beginning. If Bregman stays — will the pressure from that subtle reminder make him perform differently?
For fans, the battle between loyalty and commercial considerations in Boston could be long — and 2026 promises to be a “dilemma” season for everyone.
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