Ex-Mariners star gives bold prediction on Alex Bregman’s potential as a second baseman

Alex Bregman's free agency dilemma continues to loom as interested teams try to make space for him in their infield. His profile as a corner infielder with weak power statistics might be hindering a deal, though.

As per former Seattle Mariners player Harold Reynolds on MLB's Hot Stove, Alex Bregman doesn't generate the same power teams are looking for in the corner infield positions. But if he moves to the middle of the diamond, he could outrightly be the best in the game.

"You look at what Bregman did. Every time he is in the postseason he is kinda gone off. But I look at it this way. We're tying up the corner position and in the game today the corner position particularly now than any other time you want power in that position.

"But if Bregman were to move to second base, get this because this is a hot take, he maybe the best second baseman in baseball. If you look at the numbers statistically, Bregman batting profile might be be the best second baseman in the game," Reynolds said.

Teams prefer power hitters at corner infield positions because it helps them prioritize players with larger strike zones and big builds. These players usually aren't as agile and don't have the same amount of speed required for a second baseman or shortstop.

Bregman's batting profile over the years has transformed into a base-hitting one. His 1.015 OPS in 2019 reduced to just .768 in 2024. It shows that instead of hitting long balls, the two-time All-Star has relied on his contact-hitting and baserunning skills.

Currently on the basis of stats, the best second baseman in the game is Ketel Marte of the Arizona Diamondbacks, who hit .292 with 95 RBIs and 36 home runs last season. He finished third in the NL MVP voting.

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Alex Bregman is ready to move to 2B, as per agent Scott Boras

Early in the offseason, Alex Bregman's agent Scott Boras made it clear that the infielder can switch to the centerpiece. It might have been a move to get better offers from teams, but it would also mean Bregman giving up the position where he won his the Gold Glove award in 2024.

Alex Bregman moving to the second base has been looked at as a positive for teams like the Boston Red Sox who could solve their infield crisis. If the Red Sox bring the former Astros man in third base, they would have to shift their highest paid player Rafael Devers to the other corner. Triston Casas who plays first base would then be out of position in the lineup.