CHICAGO — The Chicago Cubs have finally landed the “big fish” that got away. In a move that has sent shockwaves through the National League Central, three-time All-Star third baseman Alex Bregman has agreed to a massive five-year, $175 million contract with the Cubs.
The deal, first reported by ESPN’s Jeff Passan on Saturday night, January 10, 2026, marks the end of a high-stakes pursuit that began nearly a year ago. After failing to secure Bregman’s services in 2025, the Cubs front office, led by Jed Hoyer, aggressive pivoted to make Bregman the cornerstone of a roster built for immediate championship contention.
Inside the Deal: No Opt-Outs, Full Control
The contract is a powerhouse commitment from both sides. Unlike Bregman’s previous deal with the Boston Red Sox—which allowed him to test the market after just one season—this $175M agreement includes no opt-outs.
- Total Value: $175,000,000
- Average Annual Value (AAV): $35,000,000
- Key Clause: Full No-Trade Clause
- Duration: 5 Years (Through 2030)
By securing Bregman through his age-36 season, the Cubs are banking on his elite baseball IQ and veteran leadership to shepherd a young core that includes rookie sensation Matt Shaw and shortstop Dansby Swanson.
The “Bregman Effect” on the Cubs’ Infield
The signing creates an immediate “good problem” for manager Craig Counsell. The Cubs currently boast one of the deepest infields in baseball, and Bregman’s arrival likely necessitates a major trade.
According to sources, the Cubs are now listening to offers for Gold Glove second baseman Nico Hoerner and rising star Matt Shaw. While Hoerner is entering the final year of his contract, Shaw possesses six years of club control, making him an incredibly valuable trade chip as the Cubs look to balance their roster.
“Alex brings a championship pedigree and a pull-heavy offensive approach that is tailor-made for the friendly confines of Wrigley Field,” said one NL scout. “When you combine his glove at the hot corner with Swanson at short, you have arguably the best defensive left side in the game.”
A Look Back: Bregman’s 2025 Campaign in Boston
Bregman’s decision to opt out of his $40 million player option with the Boston Red Sox came after a stellar, albeit injury-shortened, 2025 season.
He slashed .273/.360/.462 with 18 home runs and 62 RBIs in 114 games. A right quad strain sidelined him for most of June, but his impact in the clubhouse was undeniable. He led a young Red Sox squad to an American League Wild Card berth, proving he could still produce at an elite level outside of Houston.
Chicago’s Aggressive Winter: Cabrera, Bregman, and Beyond
The Bregman signing is the second “blockbuster” move for Chicago this week. On January 7, the Cubs traded top outfield prospect Owen Caissie and two minor leaguers to the Miami Marlins for right-handed fireballer Edward Cabrera.
With Cabrera joining a rotation featuring Shota Imanaga, Jameson Taillon, and Cade Horton, and Bregman anchoring the heart of the order, the Cubs have positioned themselves as the clear favorites to unseat the Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Central.
Career Statistical Summary: Alex Bregman
| Statistic | Career Total (thru 2025) |
| Batting Average | .272 |
| Home Runs | 209 |
| RBIs | 725 |
| OBP | .365 |
| World Series Titles | 2 (2017, 2022) |
What This Means for the 2026 Season
As the Cubs prepare for Cactus League play in February, the pressure is on. The North Siders are coming off a 92-win season and a heartbreaking NLDS exit. With Bregman’s $35M-a-year contract now on the books, anything less than a deep October run will be considered a disappointment.
FAQ: Alex Bregman’s $175M Deal with the Chicago Cubs
1. What are the specific terms of Alex Bregman’s contract?
Alex Bregman has agreed to a five-year, $175 million contract with the Chicago Cubs. The deal carries an Average Annual Value (AAV) of $35 million, making it one of the largest in franchise history. Notably, the contract includes a full no-trade clause and contains no opt-out clauses, signaling a long-term commitment from both the player and the team.
2. Why did Bregman leave the Red Sox after just one season?
Bregman signed a three-year, $120 million deal with Boston in early 2025, but that contract included an opt-out clause after the first year. Despite a productive season in Boston (.273 AVG, 18 HR, .821 OPS), he chose to test free agency again to secure a longer-term guarantee. By opting out of the remaining $80 million in Boston, he successfully parlayed his performance into a $175 million total guarantee in Chicago.
3. What does this mean for Nico Hoerner and Matt Shaw?
Bregman’s arrival at third base creates an “infield logjam.” To make room, the Cubs are reportedly exploring two primary scenarios:
- Trading Nico Hoerner: As a two-time Gold Glove winner entering his final year of team control, Hoerner is a high-value trade asset for teams needing middle-infield help.
- Moving Matt Shaw: The 2025 rookie standout could shift to a “super-utility” role or take over second base permanently if Hoerner is dealt.
4. How does this impact the Cubs’ luxury tax situation?
With a $35 million AAV, Bregman’s contract pushes the Cubs’ projected 2026 payroll toward the Competitive Balance Tax (CBT) threshold. This represents a significant shift in spending for owner Tom Ricketts and President Jed Hoyer, signaling a “win-now” window.
5. Who else have the Cubs acquired this winter?
The Bregman signing follows another major move: on January 7, 2026, the Cubs acquired right-handed starter Edward Cabrera from the Miami Marlins in exchange for top prospect Owen Caissie. The combination of Cabrera in the rotation and Bregman in the lineup has the Cubs positioned as early favorites in the NL Central.
6. What were Bregman’s career stats leading into this deal?
Through the end of the 2025 season, Bregman has established himself as one of the most consistent third basemen of his generation:
- Career Slash Line: .272 / .365 / .481
- Home Runs: 209
- Accolades: 3x All-Star, 2x World Series Champion, Gold Glove winner (2024).