When Alex Bregman signed a three-year, $120 million deal with the Boston Red Sox in February 2025, it marked the beginning of a highly anticipated new chapter – not just for the All-Star third baseman, but for a fan base hungry for leadership and consistency. And for Jewish fans in particular, Bregman’s arrival in one of America’s most historic baseball cities carried added meaning.

Now in the midst of his first season in Boston, Bregman is steadily finding his rhythm after overcoming a right quad strain that sidelined him for nearly seven weeks. Since returning to the lineup in early July – earlier than expected – he’s provided much-needed production and a steady veteran presence for a young Red Sox team in transition.

One of his defining moments of the season came on July 21 at Wrigley Field, when Bregman, originally out of the lineup to manage his workload, delivered a pinch-hit three-run homer in the eighth inning. Facing lefty Drew Pomeranz with two on and one out, Bregman jumped on an 83.4 mph knuckle curve and launched it 402 feet into the Chicago night, extending the Red Sox’s lead from 2-1 to 5-1.

The blast was his first home run since returning from the injured list, and just the second pinch-hit homer of his career.

Boston Red Sox third baseman Rafael Devers (11) hits an RBI single during the ninth inning to defeat the Baltimore Orioles at Fenway Park.
Boston Red Sox third baseman Rafael Devers (11) hits an RBI single during the ninth inning to defeat the Baltimore Orioles at Fenway Park. (credit: PAUL RUTHERFORD / USA TODAY)

Winning hits

Boston would go on to win 6–1, snapping a brief losing skid and avoiding a weekend sweep. The moment underscored what the Red Sox hoped they were getting when they signed Bregman: a clutch performer who thrives under pressure, even when not at 100%.

“We’ve got to be smart,” Bregman told ESPN after the game. “I’m back probably a month and a half – maybe a little less – earlier than we expected. The leg’s feeling great. We’re checking in every day, pre- and postgame, and just monitoring it.”

Bregman’s numbers since joining Boston have been solid despite the time missed. Through 56 games, he’s batting .294 with 12 home runs and 38 RBIs. But his influence goes beyond the box score. A two-time World Series champion with Houston, Bregman brings experience, leadership, and professionalism to a Red Sox clubhouse looking to build a new identity.

His presence also resonates deeply off the field. As one of the most prominent Jewish athletes in American sports, Bregman has long embraced his heritage. Raised in a Jewish household in Albuquerque, New Mexico, he’s spoken openly about his background and the responsibility he feels to represent Jewish athletes at the highest level.

“There aren’t a lot of Jewish kids playing pro ball,” Bregman said in a past interview. “I take a lot of pride in it. I want to be a role model for the kids who are out there and might feel like they’re the only one.”

That visibility matters in Boston, home to one of the largest Jewish populations in the United States. Since arriving, Bregman has been warmly embraced by the local Jewish community. His decision to partner with local synagogues and Jewish charities for community outreach events has only deepened his connection to the city.

After Saturday’s game, Bregman told reporters, “I’m getting there… I’m gonna get squared away here and get back to rolling,” while also crediting the Red Sox training staff for helping him return quickly and safely.

“The training staff, the strength and conditioning staff here were amazing in helping me get back quickly and fully healthy... I’m going to trust their plan and stick to it.”

As the season progresses, Bregman’s return to form – and his return to the field – is shaping up as one of the most encouraging storylines for a Red Sox team balancing short-term competitiveness with long-term development. His clutch performances, veteran presence, and unwavering pride in his identity are helping Boston write the next chapter of its storied baseball history – with Bregman playing a key role both between the lines and beyond them.