This winter's top free agent infielders remain unsigned with seemingly little movement in any of their markets. The Boston Red Sox haven't helped matters — they've checked in on most of the top-tier infield free agent and trade candidates, but seem as indecisive as the rest of the clubs seeking similar reinforcements.
Reportedly, a reunion with Alex Bregman remains Boston's top priority, but a January 1 report from MLB insider Mark Feinsand suggests it's falling behind the Toronto Blue Jays and Arizona Diamondbacks in the race. The Red Sox have a few backup plans in play, but landing them won't be easy, either.
Former Blue Jay Bo Bichette is an ideal candidate to replace Bregman in the Sox's offseason plans, as he's younger and wields a consistent, right-handed bat. There are many teams on his list of suitors, including the Sox and Blue Jays, as well as the Cubs, Dodgers, and most recently, the New York Yankees, according to MLB insider Jon Heyman (subscription required).
Bichette would be a great fit in the Yankees' lefty-heavy lineup. Shortstop Anthony Volpe underwent surgery to repair a torn labrum early this offseason and New York doesn't expect him to be fully healthy by Opening Day. Bichette could take his place in the lineup until his return, then move to second or third base. The Yankees' infield is rather crowded with Volpe back in the mix, with Jazz Chisholm Jr. and Ryan McMahon taking up second and third base, respectively, with Amed Rosario and José Caballero as depth options behind them.
Yankees join race for Bo Bichette's services as Red Sox continue to check in on all infield options
There have been rumblings that the Yankees hope to reduce their payroll this offseason, although team owner Hal Steinbrenner didn't say it would happen for certain. Bichette is sure to be one of the priciest free agents on the market this year and signing him isn't a path to saving money.
Still, the Yankees joining the race to sign Bichette alongside other big market teams like the Cubs and Dodgers doesn't bode well for Boston's pursuit. Whether or not any of those clubs land Bichette, their presence in negotiations will drive up the price for his services, and the Red Sox, despite their many promises at the beginning of the offseason, still haven't shown any inclination to spend on top free agents or long-term deals.
Bregman is still the Sox's top target, but as spring training approaches, the competition for him will only grow. The same goes for Bichette. The Red Sox should decide which infielder they'd like most and pull the trigger on an offer — the longer they wait, the more suitors may enter the market to raise their asking prices.