The Boston Red Sox seemingly went all in to sign free agent infielder Alex Bregman during last offseason, and it’s paid off in a huge way. Bregman has been one of the Red Sox’s biggest stars and is a huge reason why they’re still in an American League East division race in September.

But in order to sign Bregman, the Red Sox had to give Bregman an opt-out clause in his contract. This clause allows Bregman to reenter free agency at the end of the year, and a lot of insiders believe that’s what he’s going to do.

Bleacher Report’s Tim Kelly recently predicted the Red Sox would retain Bregman in free agency, though the free agency sweepstakes to land him with be aggressive and competitive.

“It’s been an excellent first season in Boston for Bregman, who has posted an .868 OPS and played strong defense at third base,” Kelly wrote. “He’s a lock to opt out of the final two years of his $120 million deal, and will make out better in free agency this time because he is coming off of a better season and won’t have a qualifying offer attached to him.

“But for as much as it feels like the Red Sox almost have too much position talent, they moved on from Rafael Devers and manager Alex Cora has a long-standing relationship with Bregman dating back to their time in Houston. There will be other suitors, but the Red Sox should be seen as the favorites for Bregman.”

Bregman will be one of the hotter free agents on the market again this winter, assuming he opts out, but the Red Sox should be seen as the favorites.

Boston has been great for Bregman. Bregman has been great for the Red Sox. Money won’t be a problem for the Red Sox, especially considering how young and inexpensive their core is.