Los Angeles Dodgers Expected To Chase Former Hated Rival In Free Agency

While the Los Angeles Dodgers remain focused on chasing a championship in 2025, their front office is already looking ahead to what could be a pivotal offseason. The team’s recent roster moves and current performance issues at third base have fueled speculation that a change could be coming—and MLB insider Jim Bowden believes Alex Bregman may be firmly on their radar.

“His free-agent market should be even more robust than last offseason with the Red Sox joined by the Yankees, Tigers, Astros, Phillies, and even the Dodgers; he would be an upgrade for all of them at the hot corner,” Bowden wrote in The Athletic.

Bregman’s Resurgence In Boston And Likely Opt-Out

MLB: World Series-Los Angeles Dodgers at Houston Astros
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Bregman signed a three-year, $120 million deal with the Boston Red Sox last winter, but the contract includes opt-outs after each of the first two seasons. After a strong start in 2025, Bregman is widely expected to test the free agent market again.

He is slashing .304/.388/.565 with 11 home runs, 35 RBIs, and a .953 OPS, showing clear signs of an offensive renaissance. He’s also been solid defensively, earning positive marks in Outs Above Average, according to Baseball Savant.

Boston helped tweak his swing mechanics, contributing to what could be his best season since his 2019 All-Star campaign. However, the decision to hand him the starting job at third base also stirred some clubhouse controversy—Rafael Devers was moved to designated hitter, igniting debate among fans and media alike. The Red Sox reportedly want to keep him, but Bregman’s market is heating up.

Why the Dodgers Might Be Interested

The Dodgers’ interest in Bregman may stem from an increasingly glaring issue: Max Muncy’s declining production. The veteran infielder, now in his eighth season with the team, is batting just .205 with three home runs, 19 RBIs, and a .659 OPS in 2025. Defensively, he’s struggling as well, ranking in the 2nd percentile in Outs Above Average.

Despite Muncy’s downturn, some believe the Dodgers will retain him at least through next year. His $10 million club option for 2026 is relatively team-friendly, and USA Today’s Bob Nightengale told Dodgers Nation:

“I do [think he’s back next season]… picking up $10 million is a no-brainer. He loves it there, obviously. They love him. So I don’t see Muncy going anywhere.”

Yet recent moves by the Dodgers suggest no player is untouchable. In a span of one week, the team cut ties with longtime contributors Chris Taylor and Austin Barnes, both of whom were respected voices in the clubhouse. Freddie Freeman admitted the decisions were tough on players, but emphasized the front office’s commitment to winning.

Also Read: Los Angeles Dodgers Expected To Compete With AL Rival For 2x All-Star Free Agent

Would L.A. Really Bring in Bregman?

MLB: Los Angeles Angels at Los Angeles Dodgers
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If Bregman opts out—as expected—he’ll command strong interest from several contenders, including the Yankees, Astros, Phillies, and Tigers. His track record as a two-time All-Star and World Series champion makes him an attractive target, especially for a win-now team like the Dodgers.

However, there’s one unavoidable caveat: his connection to the 2017 Houston Astros sign-stealing scandal. Bregman was a central figure on that team, and the Dodgers—who lost to Houston in the World Series that year—have not forgotten. Fan reception in Los Angeles could be hostile, and some within the organization may hesitate to make a strong push for him.

Still, talent often wins out, and Bregman represents a clear upgrade at a position of need. His offensive resurgence, defensive consistency, and postseason pedigree align with the kind of impact player the Dodgers typically pursue in free agency.

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Bottom Line

The Dodgers are no strangers to bold moves, especially when it comes to maximizing their championship window. With Max Muncy’s struggles mounting and Alex Bregman poised to hit the open market, Los Angeles may be preparing to make yet another aggressive play this offseason. Whether they can look past Bregman’s controversial past remains to be seen—but from a purely baseball perspective, the fit is hard to ignore.

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