Alex Bregman undergoes surgery on elbow ahead of free agency

Alex Bregman is entering the free agency market after elbow surgery to remove a bone chip in his right arm, a procedure that has fans and teams alike wondering about his durability. His agent, Scott Boras, confirmed that Bregman is expected to resume hitting in just a few weeks and should be fully ready by spring training, though this isn’t the first time his elbow has needed medical attention. Back in 2018, Bregman had a similar surgery, and that past experience may influence how teams approach this offseason as they consider what kind of investment he represents.

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The timing of this surgery doesn’t entirely surprise those who followed Bregman this past season. During August, he missed several games due to elbow pain, playing a few as a designated hitter to keep his bat in the lineup. While he eventually returned to third base, it was clear that something wasn’t quite right, and this offseason procedure seems to be the result of that lingering issue. Boras has suggested that the surgery was routine enough to have him back at full strength, but with Bregman reportedly open to playing second base as well, he is showing flexibility that could make him even more appealing to teams like the Mariners, Yankees, and Mets, who might be eyeing him for roles beyond third base​.

Bregman, now 30, is widely considered one of the league’s most reliable infielders, both defensively and at the plate. His recent season ended with a respectable .260 average, 26 home runs, and 75 RBIs. For a player whose defensive skills earned him his first Gold Glove, it’s safe to say teams will be evaluating how well his surgically-repaired elbow can handle the demands of third base - or any other position he might take on. For Bregman and Boras, securing a long-term deal with a team that values both his flexibility and his experience will be the priority​.