Did the Boston Red Sox just dodge a $175 million bullet? This past offseason, the narrative was clear: Boston faced significant criticism for letting star third baseman Alex Bregman walk in free agency, where he signed a massive five-year deal with the Chicago Cubs. With the 2026 MLB season now underway, early returns are prompting a fascinating second look.

While it's far too early for definitive judgments—the season is only a few weeks old—Bregman's start in Chicago has been undeniably cold. Through his first 15 games, he's slashing a meager .213/.290/.328 with a .618 OPS, a stark contrast to his production in a Red Sox uniform. Last season, before a quad injury derailed his MVP-caliber pace, Bregman was a force, hitting .273/.360/.462.

The concern for the Cubs isn't just about a slow start; it's about the long-term trajectory of a major investment. Inking a 32-year-old to a five-year contract with a full no-trade clause is a bet on immediate elite production to offset the inevitable decline in the later years. If the current struggles persist, this deal could become an anchor.

For the Red Sox and their fans, this early snapshot offers a sigh of potential relief. Imagine the fury in Fenway if the team had committed that same capital only to see this opening slump. While Bregman, a proven veteran, is more than capable of turning his season around, the Sox's decision to pivot looks increasingly prudent with each passing game. In the high-stakes game of MLB free agency, sometimes the best moves are the ones you don't make.