Alex Bregman Free Agency Update: MLB insider sees the Astros and Red Sox as top contenders for the 2x All-Star

With Juan Soto no longer available on the free agent market, stars like Alex Bregman will one the next dominoes to fall. The two-time All-Star is one of the more recognizable names remaining in free agency after a successful tenure with the Houston Astros, winning two World Series titles in his time with the team.

At 30, it's understable why Bregman will be seeking the most financially rewarding contract possible. There is reportedly interest from a number of different clubs looking to bring in the star third baseman. According to MLB insider Robert Murray, the Astros and Boston Red Sox appear to be above the rest.

On the latest episode of their show, The Baseball Insiders Podcast, hosts Murray and Adam Weinrib dove into Bregman's free agency and where he could potentially sign. Murray believes when it comes to the Astros and Red Sox involving Alex Bregman's future, it could be a case of when there's smoke, there's fire.

"All offseason, the Astros have made it abundantly clear that Alex Bregman is their top priority. Dana Brown said that definitively at the GM meetings and that has not changed at all," Murray said of Houston's pursuit of a Bregman extension.

Given Bregman's history with the team and his importance to the Astros' lineup, it is not surprising to see Houston try to retain the star infielder. It may simply come down to the dollars for Bregman to go back to Houston.

Murray was quick to point out that the Red Sox are a legit threat to swipe him away from their American League opponents.

"Seeing Alex Cora openly gush about Bregman, that's not surprising. They have plenty of ties going back to their days together in Houston and he would be a great fit in Boston," Murray continued.

Murray pointed out the Red Sox have been willing to increase their spending this offseason. Although they ultimately were unable to land him, they were viewed as finalists in the Juan Soto sweepstakes, so spending up to secure a superstar like Bregman is not out of the realm of possibility.

Astros have reportedly already offered Bregman a massive contract this offseason

At this point of his career, Bregman and perhaps more importantly, his agent Scott Boras, are seeking the most money possible on the open market. The Astros have reportedly already sent the third baseman a six-year, $156 million deal to remain in Texas. While this may not be anywhere close to Juan Soto and his 15-year, $765 million deal, it would be the richest contract in Astros history.

The fact Boston was allegedly in the running for Soto in the final days suggests the team is willing to spend more than the $156 million offered by the Astros in order to improve its roster. While this could all simply be a negotiating tactic by Boras, the Red Sox have a rough idea of what numbers are being thrown at the All-Star third baseman.