Short-Term Agreements for Elite Free Agents, Including Alex Bregman

The MLB offseason is a time when teams look to bolster their rosters, and with a number of elite free agents on the market, clubs must decide whether to pursue long-term deals or short-term contracts to address immediate needs. One such elite free agent is Alex Bregman, a star third baseman and a cornerstone of the Houston Astros for years. However, he is not the only high-caliber player available for teams to target. In this piece, we’ll discuss potential short-term agreements for Alex Bregman as well as two other elite free agents. These short-term deals provide flexibility for both players and teams, offering potential for future contract extensions or returns to free agency once a player has proven themselves or the market has shifted.

1. Alex Bregman – Short-Term Deal Options

Alex Bregman is a player with an impressive track record. Known for his elite bat, strong defense, and exceptional baseball IQ, Bregman has been one of the Astros’ most reliable and impactful players for the last several seasons. His combination of power, on-base skills, and ability to contribute both offensively and defensively make him a highly coveted asset. However, given his age (around 30 years old as of the 2025 offseason) and recent injury concerns, a short-term contract for Bregman could provide a number of benefits for both him and the team that signs him.

Why a Short-Term Deal Makes Sense for Bregman

Bregman is entering the prime of his career, but with some questions surrounding his long-term durability, a shorter-term contract could make sense for several reasons:

• Injury Concerns: Bregman has had some injury setbacks in recent seasons. A short-term deal allows him to prove that he can remain healthy and perform at a high level for a full season.
• Flexibility in Free Agency: A shorter deal gives Bregman the ability to return to free agency sooner, potentially landing a larger contract if he performs well in the short term. After a strong season, he would likely have the option to negotiate a lucrative multi-year deal.
• Market Uncertainty: Given the unpredictability of the MLB market, a shorter contract also provides flexibility in case market trends change or teams decide to allocate their resources elsewhere in the long run.

Potential Short-Term Deal for Bregman

• Contract Length: 3 years
• Annual Salary: $25 million per year
• Total Value: $75 million
• Opt-Out Clause: Bregman would have an opt-out after year two, giving him the ability to return to free agency if he has a strong two-year showing.

This type of deal would give Bregman both the financial security of a multi-year contract and the freedom to return to the market sooner should he perform at an elite level. Given his reputation as a potential top-tier third baseman, teams like the New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, or Chicago Cubs, among others, could see this type of deal as a win-win for both the player and the organization.

2. Elite Free Agent #2: Cody Bellinger

Cody Bellinger, once an MVP-caliber player with the Los Angeles Dodgers, is another elite free agent available on the market. After struggling for a couple of years following his MVP season in 2019, Bellinger bounced back with a solid 2024 campaign. His ability to provide power, speed, and solid defense in the outfield makes him a valuable player for any team in need of an impact bat and a versatile defender.

Why a Short-Term Deal Makes Sense for Bellinger

A short-term contract for Bellinger could work for several reasons:

• Bounce-Back Potential: While Bellinger showed signs of returning to form in 2024, teams will still be cautious about committing to a long-term deal, especially given his inconsistent performance in recent years.
• Defensive Versatility: Bellinger’s defensive value in the outfield—especially in center field—gives him added value. A short-term contract allows teams to take advantage of his defense and athleticism without making a long-term commitment until his value is fully re-established.
• Offensive Upside: If Bellinger continues to show the offensive ability that led to his MVP season, a short-term deal would provide both him and his new team with a chance to lock in a longer contract down the line after proving his worth again.

Potential Short-Term Deal for Bellinger

• Contract Length: 2 years
• Annual Salary: $20 million per year
• Total Value: $40 million
• Performance Bonuses: Incentives tied to plate appearances, home runs, and WAR (Wins Above Replacement).

This type of short-term deal could be an attractive option for teams looking to add a potential star without committing for the long haul. Teams like the Chicago Cubs, New York Mets, and even the Miami Marlins, who have shown interest in adding a potential impact player, could be interested in a deal that allows them to assess Bellinger’s return to MVP-level form over the next two seasons.

3. Elite Free Agent #3: Shohei Ohtani

Shohei Ohtani is arguably the most fascinating and unique free agent in the history of baseball. The two-way star has dominated both as a pitcher and a hitter, making him one of the most valuable players in the sport today. His market value is astronomical, but there is also a significant amount of uncertainty surrounding his contract due to his recovery from Tommy John surgery, which will sideline him as a pitcher for at least the 2025 season. As a result, a short-term deal for Ohtani could make sense as he navigates his recovery and transition back into a two-way role.

Why a Short-Term Deal Makes Sense for Ohtani

• Recovery from Injury: Ohtani’s recovery from elbow surgery will likely limit his pitching contributions in 2025, but he will still provide elite offensive value. A short-term deal allows him to demonstrate that he can still contribute at an elite level with his bat while ensuring that he is fully recovered before returning to the mound.
• Maximizing Future Earnings: Given Ohtani’s potential to return to two-way dominance, a short-term deal allows him to maximize his earnings in 2025, and if he returns to form on the mound in 2026, he can command an even larger deal.
• Team Flexibility: For teams looking to add Ohtani, a short-term deal provides flexibility in case his pitching contributions are delayed longer than expected. Teams can sign him as a designated hitter and adjust their roster construction accordingly.

Potential Short-Term Deal for Ohtani

• Contract Length: 3 years
• Annual Salary: $40 million per year (as a hitter only, with potential bonuses based on performance and recovery)
• Total Value: $120 million
• Option for 4th Year: Ohtani would have a player option for the fourth year, at which point he would likely opt for a longer-term deal if he is back to being a two-way player.

This type of short-term contract would allow Ohtani to earn a substantial amount of money while focusing on his recovery, and it would also give his new team a chance to make sure his health and pitching ability are up to par before committing to a larger, long-term deal. Teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, and San Francisco Giants could be among the suitors willing to pay a premium for Ohtani’s bat while keeping an eye on his future pitching contributions.