Cubs' rival's trade of fan-favorite turned nemesis opens door for Alex Bregman

Willson Contreras is finally out of sight and out of mind for the Chicago Cubs. Conteras was a beloved member of the Cubs' roster at the start of his major league career, but after signing with the St. Louis Cardinals ahead of the 2023 season,  his role as the villain. Now, he's a member of the Boston Red Sox.

ESPN's Jeff Passan was first to report that the Cardinals are trading Conteras to Boston for a package headlined by right-handed pitcher Hunter Dobbins. The Cardinals are also receiving minor-league pitchers Yhoiker Fajardo and Blake Aita.

Cardinals' trade of Willson Contreras couldn't have worked out better for the Chicago Cubs.

After trading Sonny Gray (also to the Red Sox) near the start of the offseason, the trade of Contreras continues to confirm that the Cardinals are resetting for 2026.

Next on the Cardinals' list will likely be finding a taker for veteran third baseman Nolan Arenado. The Cardinals nearly traded him to the Houston Astros last offseason, but it was vetoed by the 34-year-old. With the Cardinals not planning on contending next season, it seems likely that Arenado wouldn't be opposed to a trade this time around.

Meanwhile, with Conteras now in the fold, the Red Sox may not be as motivated to pursue a reunion with All-Star third baseman Alex Bregman as they once were. That could open the door for the Cubs, who are believed to be enamored with the veteran infielder for a second straight offseason.

Though it's not a sure thing that the Red Sox will put an end to their reunion hopes with Bregman. Contreras is expected to play first base, and in theory, third base remains open for the 31-year-old All-Star.

It would also seem that the Cubs need to figure out how they are addressing their need in the rotation before committing to Bregman. If Chicago can trade for a cost-controlled starting pitcher, like Edward Cabrera, they would have the financial means in free agency to add Bregman. That wouldn't be the case if Tatsuya Imai is their big addition to the pitching staff.

Dominoes are starting to fall, and that could lead to the Cubs making their impact move in the weeks ahead.