CUBS TARGET ALEX BREGMAN: Key Developments in the MLB Offseason Could Change the Landscape for the Chicago Cubs and Their Pursuit of the Superstar Infielder 👇

The Chicago Cubs are actively eyeing star infielder Alex Bregman, and the team’s pursuit of the three-time All-Star and two-time World Series champion continues to gain momentum. As the offseason progresses, multiple insiders have reported that the Cubs are one of the top contenders for Bregman’s signature. The talks surrounding his potential move to the Cubs have taken center stage, with the team positioned as one of the favorites to land the highly sought-after player.
According to recent reports from Jon Heyman, a prominent MLB insider for the New York Post, the Cubs’ interest is part of a heated race involving other major teams. On December 29, during a live stream, Heyman mentioned, “Bregman, it’s the same teams: Boston, Cubs, Arizona, and Toronto. So we’ve got four teams. [Bregman is] certainly just waiting for that right deal, and we assume the right deal is probably at least five years if he can do it. Last year, he went for a shorter-term deal, opted out.”
This statement reveals key details about Bregman’s intentions, as he appears focused on securing a long-term deal, likely one that spans at least five years. The fact that Bregman opted for a shorter-term contract the previous year only adds weight to this assumption. Now, as Bregman waits for the right offer, it becomes clear that the Chicago Cubs are positioning themselves as a major player in this offseason’s free-agent market.
However, Heyman also pointed out a significant hurdle that the Cubs might face: the possibility of trading Nico Hoerner, the team’s well-loved second baseman, to accommodate Bregman. For the deal to make sense in terms of roster construction, the Cubs would need to make room, and trading Hoerner could be an inevitable outcome. Nevertheless, the Cubs’ ongoing interest in Bregman reflects their eagerness to secure the star infielder, even if it means shaking up their existing roster.
Chicago Cubs and Their Strategic Plan: Will Hoerner Be Traded?
The Cubs have long been linked to Bregman, and they seem undeterred by the complexities involved in the potential deal. Despite the presence of other interested teams like the Boston Red Sox and the Arizona Diamondbacks, the Cubs have remained a consistent contender. Their approach seems to be focused on signing Bregman first and then figuring out how to manage their roster afterward. While this could involve trading Hoerner, it also suggests the Cubs are not afraid to make bold moves in pursuit of a championship-caliber roster.
In recent seasons, the Cubs have shown a commitment to building a competitive team, and acquiring Bregman could be the key piece to elevate them back to the upper echelons of MLB competition. Bregman’s ability to impact both sides of the ball—both offensively and defensively—makes him an ideal fit for a Cubs team that has long sought to bolster its infield and lineup depth.
Toronto’s Recent Signing Could Open a Door for the Cubs
As the Cubs continue their pursuit of Bregman, the landscape surrounding his free agency has shifted. On January 3, the Toronto Blue Jays made a significant move by signing Kazuma Okamoto, a 29-year-old infielder. While Okamoto was initially a player the Cubs might have pursued as well, it appears that their primary focus has always been on Bregman. With the Blue Jays now bringing Okamoto into their fold, it’s all but certain that they are out of the Bregman sweepstakes. The timing of this signing is crucial, as it drastically narrows down the pool of competitors for the star infielder.
MLB.com’s Keegan Matheson echoed this sentiment in his January 3 article, stating, “Given that Okamoto profiles best as a third baseman for the Blue Jays, this seems to lessen the appeal of Bregman to Toronto.” With Okamoto now in the mix, the Blue Jays are unlikely to pursue Bregman, leaving the Cubs with fewer rivals for his services.
This development is undoubtedly a boost for the Cubs, as they now face fewer obstacles in their quest to secure Bregman. The elimination of Toronto from the race not only brings the Cubs closer to a potential deal but also opens the door for them to potentially move faster on their pursuit of the third baseman.
Diamondbacks Remain a Threat, But Cubs Seem Poised to Pounce
While the Cubs are benefitting from Toronto’s move, the Arizona Diamondbacks remain an intriguing option for Bregman. The appeal of Arizona as a free-agent destination is undeniable, particularly considering that half of MLB teams hold their spring training in the state. Players often gravitate toward Arizona for its warm weather and proximity to MLB facilities, making the Diamondbacks a strong contender in the Bregman sweepstakes.

Furthermore, Bregman’s time with the Boston Red Sox in 2025 was a successful chapter, and he clearly enjoyed his tenure with the team. That experience, coupled with his proven track record in the postseason, adds to his appeal. Bregman’s familiarity with the high-pressure environment of MLB playoff baseball makes him a coveted asset for any team looking to make a deep run.
Nevertheless, the Cubs are positioned well to capitalize on the recent developments, particularly with the Okamoto signing shifting the focus of the offseason. The Cubs have been relatively quiet during this offseason, but this signing may just present the perfect opportunity for them to act. Bregman’s move to Chicago could be a game-changer, and the Cubs appear ready to pounce, using their financial flexibility and roster strategy to secure a major upgrade.
What’s Next for the Cubs and Bregman?
The Cubs’ interest in Bregman continues to grow stronger, and the recent Okamoto signing by the Blue Jays has only improved the Cubs’ position. While the Diamondbacks and Red Sox remain in the running, the Cubs are now in a prime position to make a move. Their focus on securing Bregman could reshape the team’s roster for years to come.
One of the key factors in the Cubs’ pursuit of Bregman is their willingness to be flexible. If they can find a way to integrate Bregman into their lineup without sacrificing too much of their core roster, it could be a win-win situation. Trading Hoerner or adjusting the roster might be necessary, but the Cubs are known for making bold moves when it comes to building a championship-contending team.
In conclusion, while Bregman’s market remains highly competitive, the Cubs are primed for a potential blockbuster move. With fewer competitors in the mix, the Cubs’ pursuit of Bregman is gaining momentum, and the coming weeks could prove to be crucial in determining where the star third baseman lands. Whether it’s Chicago, Arizona, or Boston, all eyes will be on Bregman as he makes his decision on the next chapter of his MLB career.