The Boston Red Sox reportedly target free agent Alex Bregman, but time is running out. Here's why history tells Red Sox fans they shouldn't worry.

The 31-year-old signed a minor-league deal with the Red Sox in January 2023 ahead of spring training. He made a legitimate case to make the Opening Day roster, but Connor Wong beat out Alfaro and he began the year in Triple-A Worcester. After hitting .320 with six home runs in 43 games, Alfaro opted out of his contract June 1.

According to longtime MLB insider Ken Rosenthal, that inaction might be a ploy from the Red Sox — especially if it leads to a desperate Bregman eventually lowering his contract demands with spring right around the corner.