The Boston Red Sox have structured Alex Bregman’s $120 million contract to prioritize long-term financial flexibility, with $60 million deferred until 2046. This unprecedented deferral strategy lowers the deal’s current luxury tax impact while sparking debates about MLB salary trends.
Key contract details include:
- $35 million salary in 2024
- $40 million annually in 2025-2026
- Deferral payments scale from $2M (2035) to $6M (2037-2044)
By pushing deferred compensation payments to 2035-2046, Boston reduces its current competitive balance tax liability. This financial maneuver echoes recent MLB deals but extends payments longer than typical arrangements.
The two-time All-Star’s positional role remains undefined despite Rafael Devers locking third base. Team insiders suggest potential experimentation at second base to maximize defensive versatility.
This deferral structure allows Boston to compete now while managing long-term payroll health,tweeted ESPN’s Jeff Passan during Saturday’s announcement.
Bregman’s career .260 average and 2023 Gold Glove credentials make this high-risk contract crucial for Boston’s postseason aspirations. With opt-out clauses after 2025 and 2026 seasons, the Red Sox must balance immediate performance needs against deferred financial obligations stretching into the 2040s.
