Alex Bregman Signs 5-Year $175M Deal With Cubs, Boosts Playoff Odds and Reshapes MLB Offseason

Alex Bregman has signed a five-year, 175 million dollar deal with the Chicago Cubs, significantly bolstering their roster. The signing has turbocharged the Cubs offseason, with their playoff odds jumping nearly six percent and their championship odds increasing by 1.1 percent according to early projections. Bregman will slot into third base alongside shortstop Dansby Swanson, second baseman Nico Hoerner, and first baseman Michael Busch, creating a deep infield. The Cubs also made a blockbuster trade earlier this week, acquiring hard-throwing righty Edward Cabrera from the Marlins for three prospects, including top 100 slugger Owen Caissie.

In NHL action, the Seattle Kraken mounted an impressive comeback against the New York Rangers, rallying from two goals down to win 4-2 on Monday night. Berkly Catton scored the tiebreaking goal in the third period, with additional goals from Eeli Tolvanen, Jordan Eberle, and Jared McCann. Philipp Grubauer made 19 saves for the Kraken, who have now won nine of their last twelve games. The Rangers, meanwhile, continue to struggle at home, falling to 5-12-4 at Madison Square Garden this season.

Meanwhile, Byron Buxton of the Minnesota Twins has been added to Team USA's roster for the 2026 World Baseball Classic, marking his first appearance in the tournament. USA Baseball announced his participation Monday on social media.

In recent individual performances, Luisangel Acuña of the New York Mets put on a remarkable display with a four-home run game on January 12th. Additionally, Cleveland's Selby delivered a walk-off grand slam to lead his team to a comeback victory on January 13th.

The Red Sox have begun exploring alternative paths in free agency following Bregman's signing with the Cubs, adjusting their offseason strategy accordingly. Looking ahead, MLB's 2026 international signing period opens Thursday, with each team preparing to address their top international prospect needs heading into the season.

The baseball landscape continues to shift rapidly as teams make final adjustments to their rosters before spring training. With the Hall of Fame announcement coming next week, discussion has also turned to current players positioned on the path to potential enshrinement.

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