MLB Rumors: Alex Bregman’s five-year ask cools Diamondbacks’ hopes while Yankees emerge as finalists for Tatsuya Imai

Former Houston Astros star Alex Bregman is one of the biggest names available in free agency after Kyle Schwarber and Pete Alonso concluded theirs earlier this month.

Bregman, who played for the Boston Red Sox in 2025, opted out of his contract in search of a long-term deal this offseason. According to reports on Tuesday, the Arizona Diamondbacks emerged as a potential suitor for the All-Star third baseman.

However, MLB insider Mark Feinsand reported that the Diamondbacks are a "long shot" in Bregman's pursuit, who is seeking a five-year deal worth more than $150 million.

According to Feinsand, the Diamondbacks are prioritising the addition of pitchers in the offseason to strengthen their rotation.

Meanwhile, the New York Yankees have emerged as one of the finalists in Tatsuya Imai's sweepstake. The Yankees are competing with the Chicago Cubs for the Japanese pitcher, according to MLB insider Francys Romero.

Imai, who has been posted by Saitama Seibu Lions this offseason, is coming off a strong year in the NPB after registering a 1.92 ERA with 178 strikeouts in 163 2/3 innings.

Yankees urged to sign Tatsuya Imai amid competition from Cubs

While the Cubs are competing with the Yankees for the signature of the 27-year-old Japanese pitcher, former infielder Todd Frazier made a case for the Bronx Bombers to sign Tatsuya Imai on "Foul Territory.”

"I think (the Yankees) would be the best choice for him,” Frazier said. “For the Yankees to have this guy here [is ideal]. [Imai’s] a really good pitcher [and] has understandably been in the spotlight for a long time. [He] knows what it’s all about…

“These two teams are a perfect match for him. He would suit well with both of them, but the Yankees are in much need of a starting pitcher right now, and this can only help them out, too. So, we’ll see pretty soon.”

The allure of playing in the Bronx could be a big factor in Imai's pursuit, though the Cubs could use Shota Imanaga and Seiya Suzuki to influence a potential deal for their fellow Japanese star.