Will the Boston Red Sox intensify their pursuit of Bo Bichette after missing out on Bregman?

The Red Sox had previously expressed a strong desire to bring Alex Bregman back to Boston and reportedly made a “highly competitive offer.” However, with Bregman signing a 5-year, $175 million deal with the Chicago Cubs yesterday, the Red Sox now face a gap in their infield lineup.

Boston might have an internal solution: Marcelo Mayer, the fourth overall pick in the 2021 draft, could take over third base. Before the news of Bregman’s signing broke, the rookie stated that he is mentally and physically ready to handle either second or third base depending on the team’s final lineup configuration.

If Mayer assumes third base, the second base position remains uncertain. Bo Bichette clearly stands out as a strong reinforcement option.

The Red Sox are among the teams competing for Bichette, despite reports that the New York Yankees have also entered the race and that the Philadelphia Phillies are expected to meet with him tomorrow. According to Jen McCaffrey of The Athletic, following Bregman’s departure, the 27-year-old Bichette is “very likely” to become Boston’s “primary target” in free agency.

Other free-agent options for the Red Sox include third baseman Eugenio Suárez. The team could also strengthen third base through trades (such as acquiring Isaac Paredes from the Houston Astros) or second base (targeting Brendan Donovan of the St. Louis Cardinals or Nico Hoerner of the Chicago Cubs), while allowing Mayer to handle third base defense.