The Chicago Cubs landed a big fish in MLB free agency by signing Alex Bregman to a five-year, $175 million deal.
Bregman opted out after one year with the Boston Red Sox and hit big in free agency this time. During his introductory press conference on Thursday, Bregman revealed he is switching jersey numbers, going from No. 2 to No. 3, and his reason why will excite Cubs fans.
“I wore number 3 because I wanted a 3rd championship,” Bregman said with a smile.
Alex Bregman on choosing number 3: "I wore number 3 because I wanted a 3rd championship." pic.twitter.com/jxxSXxEV2S
— Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) January 15, 2026
Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner has been wearing No. 2, and that is the number Bregman has worn ever since coming into the league with the Houston Astros.
Bregman says he didn’t talk to Hoerner about it. Rather, he decided to switch with eyes on his third World Series title.
Bregman was with the Astros from 2017 until 2024, so he has two World Series victories with Houston, and is now aiming for another after signing a five-year contract with the Cubs.
The Cubs are also hoping the signing of Bregman can improve their World Series chances. They finished as the No. 4 seed in the National League and behind the Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Central.
The Cubs then defeated the San Diego Padres in three games in the Wild Card round before falling to the Brewers.
