The Chicago Cubs have officially signed Alex Bregman to a lucrative five-year contract valued at $175 million. Bregman, an esteemed third baseman, will be formally introduced by the Cubs at Wrigley Field during a news conference on Thursday. The player, who previously wore No. 2, will now wear No. 3 with his new team.
As part of the deal, the Cubs will defer $70 million, which accounts for 40% of the total contract amount. Bregman will receive $35 million annually, with $15 million deferred in both 2022 and 2029, $10 million deferred in 2027 and 2028, and $20 million deferred in 2030. The deferred payments will be made in eight installments each July 31 from 2034 to 2041, with varying amounts allocated for each year.
In addition to his substantial contract, Bregman will enjoy a full no-trade provision and will have a hotel suite provided for him during road trips. The 32-year-old player, who previously signed a three-year $120 million deal with Boston, attended an NHL game in Chicago recently and received a warm reception from fans.
During his brief stint with the Red Sox, Bregman posted solid stats, hitting .273 with 18 home runs and 62 RBIs. His contract with the Cubs includes a no-trade provision that gives him veto power over any potential trades without his approval. Originally drafted by Houston in 2015, Bregman spent nine seasons with the Astros, winning World Series titles in 2017 and 2022 amid controversy surrounding a sign-stealing scandal.
With Bregman’s arrival, the Cubs face decisions regarding their infield lineup, potentially involving trading players like Matt Shaw or adjusting positions to accommodate the new addition. Despite finishing second in the National League Central last season with a 92-70 record, the Cubs are looking to bolster their roster for a strong playoff run in the upcoming season.