Former Houston Astros star Alex Bregman answered the call in 2025. Entering free agency last offseason, Bregman was seeking long-term financial security either from the Astros or someone else.
On the surface Bregman had a solid year, featuring 26 homers and 4.2 fWAR. However, concerns that he was slowing down came to light. Bregman's quality of contact left something to be desired, leading to a .319 xwOBA, his lowest mark since 2016. His walk rate plummeted to 6.9% as well, again tying 2016 for the worst mark of his career.
As a result, he settled for a Scott Boras special in Boston.