Dana Brown recently labeled Alex Bregman as a “long shot” to return to Houston, suggesting the club was focusing its attention on other offseason endeavors.

Well, that might have been media speak from the Astros general manager.

The New York Post’s Jon Heyman reported on Monday that Houston is indeed “trying” to bring back Bregman, who played the first nine years of his MLB career with the franchise. The Astros’ six-year, $156 million offer for the veteran third baseman reportedly remains on the table, but Bregman apparently isn’t inclined to accept since it would mark a step down from his previous annual salary.

Houston seemingly improved its chances of retaining Bregman by trading star closer Ryan Pressly, but the Astros certainly aren’t alone in trying to sign the two-time All-Star. Heyman identified the Chicago Cubs, Detroit Tigers and Boston Red Sox as other clubs “in” on Bregman.

It’s unclear where the Red Sox stand regarding most likely landing spots for the two-time World Series champion. But if Bregman doesn’t end up calling Fenway Park home, Boston theoretically could turn its attention to another decorated veteran infielder.

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