The Chicago Cubs have officially signed Alex Bregman to a lucrative five-year contract worth $175 million US, making him the newest addition to their roster. Bregman is set to be introduced by the Cubs in a press conference at Wrigley Field on Thursday. He will be switching his jersey number to No. 3, as Nico Hoerner currently wears No. 2 for the team.
A significant portion of the contract, $70 million, will be deferred by Chicago, accounting for 40% of the total amount. Bregman’s annual earnings will amount to $35 million, with $15 million deferred for this year and 2029, $10 million each for 2027 and 2028, and $20 million in 2030. The deferred payments will be made in eight installments every July 31 from 2034 to 2041.
In addition to his salary, Bregman will enjoy certain perks such as a full no-trade provision and a hotel suite during road trips. The 32-year-old player was previously pursued by Chicago before he opted for a three-year $120 million deal with Boston last February, a contract that included opt-out clauses after the initial two seasons. Bregman was spotted at an NHL game in Chicago recently, receiving a warm reception from fans.
During his tenure with the Red Sox, Bregman posted impressive stats, hitting .273 with 18 home runs and 62 RBIs in a single season. His contract with the Cubs grants him the authority to veto any potential trades without his approval. Having earned $40 million with Boston, Bregman received $15 million last year, with the Red Sox owing him $5 million in January 2028 and $2 million annually from 2035 to 2044.
Originally selected by the Houston Astros as the second overall pick in the 2015 amateur draft from LSU, Bregman spent nine successful seasons with the team, winning World Series titles in 2017 and 2022, although the first championship was marred by a sign-stealing scandal.
Upon joining the Red Sox, Bregman’s presence led to Rafael Devers, an all-star player, being asked to transition to the designated hitter role, ultimately resulting in Devers’ trade to San Francisco. The Cubs, who finished second in the National League Central last season with a 92-70 record, are considering strategic infield adjustments with Bregman’s arrival, potentially involving rookie Matt Shaw in a super-utility capacity alongside two-time Gold Glove winner Nico Hoerner.