The New York Yankees are known for making bold moves in free agency, but the idea of signing third baseman Alex Bregman has sparked mixed reactions across the baseball world. While Bregman’s on-field talent makes him a logical fit for the Bronx Bombers, MLB analysts warn that signing him could come with significant baggage due to lingering animosity tied to the 2017 Houston Astros’ sign-stealing scandal.
MLB veteran and analyst Harold Reynolds voiced concerns about the emotional fallout that could accompany a Bregman signing.
“I just think that you can’t overlook that there is bad blood there,” Reynolds said. “If he doesn’t get off to a hot start playing in the Bronx, what do you think the fans are gonna be yelling at him the whole time? That’s a tough pit.”
The Yankees’ fanbase has a long memory when it comes to the Astros’ 2017 sign-stealing scandal. Since that year, players like Jose Altuve and former Astro Carlos Correa have faced relentless boos and hostile chants at Yankee Stadium. Signing Bregman, one of the key figures from that controversial team, could reignite those bitter memories.
Statistically, Bregman seems like an ideal addition to the Yankees’ roster. The team has struggled with consistency at third base, making the two-time All-Star and Silver Slugger a tantalizing solution. His defensive reliability and power at the plate could bring much-needed stability to a Yankees lineup looking to reclaim its championship form. However, baseball isn’t just about numbers—it’s about narratives.
“For the Yankees sure the need is apparent, right? (Bregman) plugs right into third base. Jazz Chisholm goes to center field or second base, and you’re all set. I’m not quite sure about it,” MLB Network analyst Matt Vasgersian commented on Hot Stove. “I don’t know how many ex-Astros have been coveted in the Bronx.”
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Yankees’ emotional backlash factor
The Yankees’ front office has not shied away from airing grievances about the 2017 Astros. General Manager Brian Cashman has openly suggested that Houston’s sign-stealing potentially cost the Yankees a trip to the World Series. As recently as last season, Cashman implied there should be an asterisk next to the Yankees’ 15-year World Series drought because of the Astros’ cheating.
Given this tense history, many wonder whether Bregman could ever truly be embraced in pinstripes.
Despite the challenges, former Yankee and Astro Cameron Maybin offered a different perspective. He believes Bregman’s competitiveness and leadership could mesh well with Yankees captain Aaron Judge, forming a potent duo on and off the field.
Vasgersian echoed that sentiment, highlighting the fickle nature of fan loyalty.
“Look, if he signed with the Yankees and hit a homer on Opening Day, he’s a Yankee, period,” Vasgersian explained. “That’s how this works.”
Lachlan Cunningham
There’s no denying that Alex Bregman brings undeniable talent and postseason experience. However, the emotional baggage stemming from his connection to the Astros’ scandal could make for a rocky adjustment in the Bronx.
With reports that Yankees GM Brian Cashman has already engaged Bregman’s agent Scott Boras in discussions, the possibility of a high-stakes signing is real. Whether the Yankees are willing to face the potential fan backlash in exchange for elite production at third base remains to be seen.
For now, Bregman’s future hangs in the balance, leaving Yankees fans—and the entire baseball world—watching closely to see if the Bronx Bombers are ready to take a chance on one of MLB’s most polarizing stars.
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