Alex Bregman Joins Cubs with New Number

Next season, Alex Bregman will don a fresh jersey number as he transitions to the Chicago Cubs. He has signed a substantial five-year, $175 million contract and will wear No. 3, which he hopes represents his ambition to secure a third World Series title.

Bregman expressed his intent during a press conference, saying, “I chose number 3 with the goal of winning another championship.” This announcement came as he was introduced as a new member of the team.

At 31, Bregman already has two World Series titles under his belt from his time with the Astros in 2017 and 2022. Throughout his decade in the MLB, he wore No. 2 and was picked second overall in the 2015 MLB Draft, right after his current teammate, Dansby Swanson.

It’s noted that Bregman’s new deal includes $70 million in deferrals, a detail that adds to the complexity of his contract. During the introduction, he shared some of his thoughts on why he chose the Cubs over other teams, emphasizing the significance of a no-trade clause in providing security for himself and his family.

“It was really crucial for me and my family to find a place that feels stable and values what’s important to us,” he noted. Bregman is looking forward to raising his children in Chicago.

While the Cubs prevailed, the Red Sox had also shown interest, offering a five-year, $165 million deal. However, the no-trade clause ultimately tipped the scales in favor of the Cubs.

His agent, Scott Boras, mentioned that this clause was a significant factor, noting the importance of ensuring a fixed location for Bregman. Last season, he had signed a short-term contract with the Red Sox, which included an opt-out option, and he managed a .273 batting average with 28 doubles and 18 home runs over 114 games before suffering an injury that sidelined him for around two months.