CHICAGO — A trade “earthquake” is spreading throughout MLB: multiple reputable sources say the Chicago Cubs and Alex Bregman are close to closing a $201 million deal, a figure that has left fans and pundits stunned.
After Bregman officially returned to the free market — leaving the Boston Red Sox after opting out of his contract — his name was immediately targeted by many big-name teams. Among them, the Cubs appeared as the leading candidate. According to the latest reports, the Cubs have made a “brilliant” offer: about 4–6 years, a high average annual salary (AAV) — with a total contract value of about $201 million before calculating opt‑outs and bonuses.
If the deal goes through, it would be a huge coup — not just financially, but strategically: Bregman, with his powerful hitting and solid defense, could instantly become the heart of the Cubs’ infield, putting the team in a strong position to compete.
The Cubs are currently lacking a heavy hitter at third base — after losing a few significant bats. Many analysts believe Bregman can fill that void with his proven performance: in 2025, despite injuries, he still posted a slash line of ~.273/.360/.462, with 18 home runs and a 128 OPS+ — worth a lot to any team.
Furthermore, since Bregman has opted out — no longer has a qualifying offer attached — signing him doesn’t cost the Cubs a pick. This makes him a “easier” buy for the team, in a context where they need a boost to rise strongly.
However, not everyone believes Bregman really “agrees” to the $201 million offer. Some sources still consider it too high, and worry about the financial pressure — especially when the Cubs are sensitive to the luxury tax.
In addition, according to a recent analysis, the team is also considering the option of moving to cheaper targets — like Eugenio Suárez — if Bregman continues to demand a high salary and a long-term contract.
At 32 years old in the 2026 season, Bregman is no longer too young — but his experience, skill, and consistent hitting ability are still highly valued. Many believe he will aim for a long-term contract, financial security, and stability for the second half of his career. But $201 million? That is an amount of money that not every team dares to spend.
Both the Cubs and Bregman are in the “final stages of negotiations.” Several inside sources have revealed that additional clauses — like opt-outs, performance bonuses, or injury insurance — will be key to getting the deal “done.”
If the Cubs do sign Bregman for ~201 million, it would be one of the biggest contracts of the 2025‑26 MLB winter, and could reshape the landscape of the National League. But like any big deal, the risks and rewards are clear.
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