Even though Alex Bregman has yet to don a Boston Red Sox uniform at Fenway Park, he is no stranger to the venerable ballpark or the team’s passionate fan base.
And that meant hearing boos whenever he made the trip to Boston with the Houston Astros for nine seasons.
“Yeah, but it’s all good,” Bregman told reporters with a smile during his Red Sox introductory press conference Sunday morning in Fort Myers, Fla., as seen on NESN.
Despite the jeers thrown in his direction, Bregman gained respect for Boston fans. The 29-year-old third baseman played in three different playoff series against the Red Sox during his tenure with the Astros — the most recent coming in the 2021 American League Championship Series — and he appreciated the heightened environment the fans created at Fenway.
“It was awesome,” Bregman told reporters. “The atmosphere was incredible, living on every pitch. Definitely a tough place to play on the road. Memories good two years and not so good when (Andrew) Benintendi dove and caught the ball that one year.”
Bregman, who accepted a three-year, $120 million contract with the Red Sox last week, now has an opportunity to transform from adversary to beloved player among Boston fans.
The experienced infielder’s track record of excelling at Fenway should aid in that effort. Bregman boasts a career batting average of .375, with seven home runs and 15 RBIs across 21 regular-season games at Fenway. He also possesses an incredible 1.240 OPS at the stadium, the highest of any player in MLB history with a minimum of 75 plate appearances.
Those numbers paint the picture of a player who thrives in Boston, even when wearing an opposing uniform. Now, with a Red Sox jersey on his back, Bregman hopes to continue his success in one of baseball’s most historic venues. His familiarity with Fenway’s unique dimensions—including the Green Monster in left field and the tricky right-field corner—should give him an edge as he settles into his new role.
The Red Sox pursued Bregman not only for his offensive prowess but also for his leadership and playoff experience. Over his career, he has built a reputation as a clutch performer, one who embraces the pressure of big moments. Boston, a city known for its championship pedigree, values players who rise to the occasion, and Bregman fits that mold.
Bregman’s addition is also a signal that the Red Sox are committed to returning to contention. Boston has struggled to find consistency in recent seasons, finishing at the bottom of the American League East in 2022 and 2023. Bringing in a proven winner like Bregman sends a message that the organization is serious about competing at a high level once again.
For Bregman, the transition to Boston marks a new chapter in a career that has already included a World Series title, two All-Star appearances, and multiple deep playoff runs. However, he knows that winning over Red Sox fans requires more than just past accolades. He must prove himself through his effort, intensity, and willingness to embrace the city’s demanding baseball culture.
Boston sports fans are known for their passion, and they respect players who give their all. Bregman appears to understand this dynamic, which is why his message to Red Sox Nation was simple but effective.
“I simply want to come in and give my best effort every day, aim to be a supportive teammate, play fiercely, leave everything on the field, and achieve victory,” Bregman remarked to the media.
That mindset will serve him well as he prepares for his first season in a Red Sox uniform. While his official home debut won’t come until the Red Sox’s home opener on April 4, the early signs indicate that Bregman is ready to embrace Boston’s culture and carve out his place in Red Sox history.
With his talent, experience, and the right attitude, Alex Bregman has all the tools to go from former foe to Fenway favorite.
