Bregman's Opt-Out Looms Over Red Sox Offseason

After the Red Sox' Wild Card loss to the Yankees, All-Star third baseman Alex Bregman's impending opt-out is the franchise's biggest offseason decision and could reshape Boston's infield. Teammates publicly praised Bregman and urged the club to keep him, but the front office appears split and chief baseball officer Craig Breslow has voiced caution. Insiders cite health and aging-curve concerns: Bregman hit .299 with a .938 OPS before a quad injury and roughly .250 with a .724 OPS after returning, finishing about .270/.360/.462 (.821 OPS), which could make the club willing to let him test free agency. With Rafael Devers no longer on the books, Boston will have payroll flexibility and Bregman is expected to draw long-term offers if he opts out. Several veterans may move on — Dustin May is unlikely to return and Lucas Giolito's status is uncertain after an elbow issue — while the front office prioritizes rotation upgrades and high-leverage right-handed relief, with names like Joe Ryan and Ryan Helsley floated. Despite the playoff exit, a young core that includes Roman Anthony, Marcelo Mayer and Connelly Early gives Boston roster options but forces difficult winter decisions.