Mets’ interest in Bregman and Bichette cools due to high-year demands
The New York Mets face difficulties in assembling the squad for the 2026 MLB season. Após the departure of Pete Alonso for the Orioles and Edwin Díaz for the Dodgers, the team is looking for reinforcements in the infield. However, the persecution of free agents Alex Bregman and Bo Bichette took on a discouraging turn.
Reports indicate that the president of baseball operations, David Stearns, prefers to avoid long-term commitments to players over the age of 30. Bregman, aged 32 in 2026, and Bichette, aged 28, require extensive contracts to sign.
The Mets have already made trades and acquisitions, such as the arrival of Marcus Semien and Jorge Polanco, but they need an impact right-handed hitter.
Contractual requirements of Bregman
Alex Bregman has opted out of his contract with Red Sox after a solid season with Boston.
He seeks stability after a short agreement the previous year.
Projections point to a six-year pact worth around 170 million dollars.
Teams like Blue Jays, Diamondbacks and Cubs show active interest.
The Mets hesitate due to the long duration of the contract.
Bregman posted an .822 OPS in 2025 despite an injury that limited games.
Options for Bo Bichette
Bo Bichette enters the market as one of the top shortstops available.
He expressed a willingness to move to second base.
This expands options for teams with fixed shortstops.
Forecasts indicate a five-year contract worth between 130 and 150 million dollars.
Bichette had a strong season in 2025, with an average above 0.300.
- Batting average: 0.311
- OPS: 0.840
- Home runs: 18
- RBIs: 94
Mets see the value in younger age, but are reluctant to take the required years.
Financial situation of Mets
The payroll of Mets currently amounts to around 277 million dollars.
Adding long contracts would increase tax and luxury tax risks.
Steve Cohen authorizes expenses, but the executive front prioritizes flexibility.
The team acquired Devin Williams to replace Díaz in the bullpen.
Reinforcements in the infield preferably come via exchanges.
Mark Vientos competes for a spot at first or third base.
Competition in the market
Other teams advance in negotiations with Bregman and Bichette.
Toronto Blue Jays emerge as strong candidates for both.
Chicago Cubs and Arizona Diamondbacks monitor Bregman.
Detroit Tigers maintain moderate interest.
Mets focus efforts on targets with shorter terms.
Recent team movements
The Mets traded Brandon Nimmo and Jeff McNeil.
They brought in Semien to strengthen defense at second base.
Jorge Polanco signed for two years.
The focus shifts to pitchers and hitters via exchanges.
Ketel Marte appears as an option in negotiations.
Outlook for the infield
Francisco Lindor remains a pillar at shortstop.
Semien and Polanco form a duo in the middle of the infield.
Adding Bichette would require repositioning.
Bregman would occupy third base.
The organization evaluates internal options as Brett Baty.
Priority falls on balance in the right-handed lineup.
The Mets remain active in the MLB offseason market. Reluctance with long contracts sidelines Bregman and Bichette for now. The team is looking for alternatives to compete in the Nacional League in 2026.
Beatriz Lima é colaboradora da redação do Mix Vale, portal de notícias com cobertura de Brasil e mundo. Produz conteúdo nas editorias de economia e benefícios, com foco em informação de serviço para o leitor brasileiro. Escreve para o portal desde 2024.
