The Toronto Blue Jays aren’t just “kicking the tires” anymore—they appear to be making a serious play for one of the most decorated infielders on the market.
According to a Saturday evening report from MLB insider Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, the Blue Jays have been in “recent contact” with super-agent Scott Boras regarding free-agent third baseman Alex Bregman.
While Toronto has been heavily linked to potential moves for Bo Bichette and Kyle Tucker this winter, the pursuit of Bregman represents a significant shift in the team’s pursuit of a middle-of-the-order bat. Following his 2025 season with the Boston Red Sox, Bregman opted out of his contract to test the open market, and the Blue Jays have emerged as a primary suitor.
A Better Defensive Fit?
One of the most compelling details in Rosenthal’s report is why the Jays might prefer Bregman over other high-profile targets. While the front office has expressed a desire for a left-handed hitter (such as Cody Bellinger or Kyle Tucker), they reportedly view the right-handed Bregman as a superior defensive fit for their current roster construction.
If a deal were to be struck, Toronto’s projected 2026 infield would likely feature:
- Third Base: Alex Bregman
- Shortstop: Andrés Giménez
- Second Base: Ernie Clement
- Right Field: Addison Barger (sliding out from the infield)
This configuration would give the Blue Jays one of the most elite defensive infields in the American League, providing a massive boost to a pitching staff that recently added Dylan Cease.
The Houston Connection
The interest in Bregman isn’t just about the numbers; it’s about the clubhouse. Bregman has deep ties to current Blue Jays leaders George Springer and Myles Straw from their championship years in Houston.
Rosenthal notes that these existing relationships make Toronto a “reasonable possibility” for the 31-year-old veteran. For a Blue Jays team that fell just short of a World Series title in 2025, adding a “culture setter” with two rings could be the final piece of the puzzle.
What’s Next for the Jays?
With the Red Sox, Cubs, and Diamondbacks also in the mix, the bidding for Bregman is expected to be competitive. However, with the financial backing of Rogers and a clear window to win, the Blue Jays are positioning themselves to be aggressive.
Whether Bregman is the primary target or a high-end pivot if negotiations with Bo Bichette stall, one thing appears certain: Toronto is not done making big moves this offseason.