MLB Trade Rumors: Insider Links Alex Bregman To Astros' Rival

As Alex Bregman prepares to enter free agency after nine successful seasons with the Houston Astros, MLB insider Jon Heyman has linked the All-Star third baseman to the New York Yankees, a team familiar with acquiring top talent. 

According to Heyman, contract negotiations between the Astros and Bregman were "far apart" last spring, raising doubts about his return to Houston. 

With Bregman hitting 17 home runs since July and posting solid numbers in 2024, including a .259 batting average, 23 home runs, and 93 RBIs, he’s expected to be one of the most coveted free agents on the market. 

Heyman suggests that "the Yankees could make sense for Bregman," as their infield situation remains in flux heading into the offseason.

ALEX BREGMAN WALKS IT OFF FOR THE ASTROS 💥 pic.twitter.com/cJLG0ZqvNp

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) July 28, 2024

The Yankees, coming off their 21st division title, recently acquired Jazz Chisholm Jr. at the trade deadline, but Heyman notes that a position shift could easily accommodate Bregman at third base. 

"Jazz Chisholm Jr. could move to second, where he’s Gold Glove caliber," Heyman writes, which would solve the Yankees' defensive issues at second base, where Gleyber Torres has struggled. 

With D.J. LeMahieu coming off a disappointing season, the Yankees could reshuffle their infield to add Bregman’s consistent bat and glove. 

This potential move would not only address their defensive needs but also deepen a lineup already featuring Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton, and the possibility of re-signing Juan Soto.

Jose Altuve on Alex Bregman: "I think I'm confident about ownership, the front office and coaches getting together and putting a great contract (together) for him and making him stay here the rest of his career."

— Chandler Rome (@Chandler_Rome) September 30, 2024

While the Astros are expected to try to re-sign Bregman, the Yankees are poised to be serious contenders for his services. 

With Bregman emerging as the top third baseman on the market following Matt Chapman's extension with the San Francisco Giants, several teams are likely to compete for him. However, the Yankees, with their history of aggressive free-agent pursuits, could be the most formidable suitor, aiming to build a powerhouse lineup for the 2025 season.

Photo Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images