Tue Sep 24 02:09:39 UTC 2024: ## MLB’s Third Base Market: Bregman Reigns Supreme, But Thin Options Await

**By MLBTR**

The upcoming free agent class at third base is headlined by Alex Bregman, who stands as the clear frontrunner despite a recent decline in walk rate. Bregman’s projected contract could exceed $200MM, making him a significant investment for teams seeking a proven offensive player.

While the Astros are expected to make a qualifying offer, Bregman is likely to decline and seek a larger deal elsewhere. Other teams may have to look to the trade or non-tender market to find a suitable third baseman.

Behind Bregman, the third base market is surprisingly thin. Paul DeJong, a career middle infielder, has seen some success at the position this season, but his offensive consistency remains a concern.

Other notable names include:

* **Matt Duffy:** A veteran infielder who has provided reliable offensive production in a utility role.
* **Josh Iglesias:** A resurgent former All-Star shortstop who has split time between second and third base with the Mets.
* **Christian Yelich:** A former MVP candidate who has struggled in recent seasons but still possesses potential.

Many of the other players on the list are aging, injury-prone, or have shown declining production, making them risky acquisitions for teams. The lack of top-tier talent at third base could lead to a heavy reliance on trades or creative solutions as teams seek to fill their roster needs.

The article also discusses the perceived undervaluation of players like Jose Iglesias and Matt Duffy, highlighting the importance of reliable contact hitters even in an era dominated by power hitters. The discussion raises the question of whether “elite contact” is still a valuable skill in today’s game.

Overall, the 2024-25 free agent class at third base is a mixed bag. While Bregman stands as a top target, teams looking for a reliable starter at a reasonable price may have to explore alternative options.

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