The Cubs look much improved, with a bolstered bullpen thanks to the acquisitions of Ryan Pressly, Ryan Brasier, Eli Morgan, Cody Poteet and Caleb Thielbar, and of course the new marquee man, <a href="https://nypost.com/2024/12/13/sports/kyle-tucker-traded-to-cubs-as-yankees-juan-soto-void-remains/">outfielder Kyle Tucker</a>. 

But the acquisition they really wanted to make was star third baseman Alex Bregman, who would have given them the game’s best defensive infield and made them clear division favorites.

The Cubs and Red Sox apparently were Bregman’s preferred destinations, but Chicago’s best offer of $115 million over four years couldn’t touch <a href="https://nypost.com/2025/02/12/sports/alex-bregman-agrees-to-120-million-red-sox-contract/">winning Boston’s $120M over three</a>, even with significant deferrals in the Red Sox deal.

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<figcaption>Alex Bregman hits a sacrifice fly during the Red Sox’s spring training game Feb. 26. <span class="credit">AP</span></figcaption>

Bregman would have given the Cubs a third Gold Glove infielder in addition to shortstop Dansby Swanson and second baseman Nico Horner, and first baseman Michael Busch is worthy of one.

The acquisition the Cubs really wanted to make was Alex Bregman, who would have given them the game’s best defensive infield.{ai:summary}<p>The Cubs have strengthened their roster with key bullpen additions and outfielder Kyle Tucker. However, they missed out on star third baseman Alex Bregman, who chose the Red Sox's $120 million deal over Chicago's $115 million offer, despite the Cubs' strong infield defense potential. </p><p>Bregman's presence would have solidified the Cubs' infield alongside Gold Glove winners Dansby Swanson and Nico Horner.  #sports</p>

Cubs left with Alex Bregman regret as Red Sox star became latest free agent that got away

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