The visitor’s clubhouse at Yankee Stadium had a bleak atmosphere after suffering a 4-0 loss to their archrivals. Heavy with a rush of emotions, all the Red Sox players and coaching staff hugged each other goodbye. Soon, the clubhouse emptied, but Alex Bregman remained at his locker, still in full uniform as he stayed alone until late. Being the face of Boston’s veteran core, there has long been uncertainty around his future with the Red Sox, about which he subtly hinted in the postgame media availability, whether he’s staying or not.

After the Yankees eliminated the Red Sox from the playoffs, Alex Bregman spoke to NESN about the tough loss. When asked if he envisions being a part of the Red Sox’s young roster in the future, he replied, “Of course.”

However, he further added, “I’m not even thinking about that at all right now. I’m thinking about the game that just happened.” Although the veteran hasn’t officially confirmed if he will be exercising his opt-out option, what he didn’t doubt was: “It was an honor to put on this jersey.”

Alex Bregman has an opt-out clause in his contract that would allow him to become a free agent this winter. His remarks, performance, and all the signs point towards him opting out to pursue a long-term contract.

Alex Bregman started this season with a .299 average, 11 homers, and a .938 OPS in 51 games before suffering a quad injury in May that made him miss seven weeks. Before his injury setback, he looked like a clear opt-out candidate.

However, after returning in the second half, he has only hit .250 with seven homers, 27 RBIs, and a .727 OPS in his last 61 appearances while struggling significantly in September. Still, once Bregman exercises his opt-out option, he’ll immediately become one of the top free agents in the offseason.

Since he’s not eligible for a qualifying offer, the demand for his services will spike. But for Boston’s front office, bringing Alex Bregman back should be their number one priority. If not, there are three potential landing spots for him.

Top suitors for Alex Bregman this offseason

In a month or so, we’re about to enter another off-season. It’ll be that time when Alex Bregman will have the ability to opt out of his contract and head to the free agency market.

The Philadelphia Phillies, who were one of the first to clinch the division title, are seemingly always in the market to add talent. They appeared to have some interest in Alex Bregman last off-season. However, with Kyle Schwarber headed to free agency, their interest in the Red Sox’s third baseman could spike all over again. Throughout this season, Alec Bohm has been a question mark in the lineup, which makes Alex Bregman’s case for Philadelphia even stronger.

Next up, the Detroit Tigers are also an option. Largely because of the connection between Alex Bregman and his former manager, A.J. Hinch. The Tigers have been reportedly interested in him all along; they even fell short in free agency last time. With the opportunity to land him this time, the Tigers could be more aggressive in pursuing him. He’s the veteran leader and has all that would excite Detroit to bring him in.

On the other hand, this upcoming off-season, the Red Sox essentially need to add at least one or two veterans to provide leadership in the young roster. Alex Bregman and Trevor Story have been doing that all along. However, since both have an opt-out option after this season, it’s quite uncertain what they will eventually decide to do. If the front office offers Bregman his desired contract, he could decide to stay and help the club win the title in 2026.