Cubs' Alex Bregman gamble gets ultimate validation with Silver Slugger nomination

Alex Bregman has been a central figure in the story of the Chicago Cubs over the last two years. In 2025, the Cubs stepped outside of their comfort zone to try and land Bregman in free agency, but with a capped offer, they stood no chance against the Boston Red Sox. The Cubs made up for that mistake last offseason, taking advantage of the Red Sox dragging their feet, and signing Bregman to a five-year deal worth $175 million.

It was clear in 2025 that the Cubs clearly were missing the presence that would have been Bregman. While they've essentially confirmed as much when talking about his traits during his introductory press conference last offseason, the start to his tenure was far from enjoyable. He entered a prolonged offensive slump that not only included several moments where he drew the ire of Cubs fans, but questions about if he would even regain his offensive prowess.

Considering Bregman just was revealed as a finalist for the Louisville Silver Slugger Award among National League third baseman, safe to say reports of his demise were greatly exaggerated.

As a whole, the 32-year-old finished with a slash line of .265/.355/.464 with 28 home runs. It was the third-highest home run total of his career, and his 128 wRC+ was the highest mark of his career since 2022. For much of the season, Max Muncy looked like the runaway favorite to win the Silver Slugger award at the hot corner for the National League, but with Bregman being one of the game's best hitters during the closing months of the season, it's certainly a much closer debate.

Cubs' Alex Bregman signing gets another stamp of approval with Silver Slugger nomination

As the Cubs turn to the page to the 2027 season, Bregman figures to be more important than ever to the starting lineup. It's a lineup that's expected to be without Seiya Suzuki, and it also seems likely that Ian Happ is elsewhere. There's also the reality that Pete Crow-Armstrong's production in 2027 may have some level of regression from this year.

The Cubs are going to need the Bregman that was present during the closing months of the season. The Bregman that had 19 home runs and a wRC+ of 176 since the All-Star break. If that is who the Cubs have for the full duration of a regular season, then there's reason to believe that the offense won't take a full step back next year.

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