The Boston Red Sox apparently have some new competition in the race to sign Alex Bregman.

The Arizona Diamondbacks have become a “surprise entrant” in the sweepstakes for the free agent third baseman, and are “kicking the tires” on the possibility of bringing him in, according to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale on Tuesday. Underdog Fantasy’s Jared Carrabis responded to the report by saying Arizona was “more than just kicking the tires” on Bregman.

Bregman is the type of player who would fit almost anywhere, but isn’t this all just a little too convenient?

It’s pretty easy to read between the lines on these reports, as interest in Bregman could potentially accelerate reported trade talks between the Red Sox and Diamondbacks regarding superstar second baseman Ketel Marte. Arizona’s “interest” in one infielder might just help them pawn the other off onto Boston.

Bregman stands to benefit from these reports, as well. The Red Sox seem to be firm in their discussions with the veteran, and might soften up if they believe there’s a real chance someone else makes a competitive offer. Boston is now stuck between a rock and a hard place, because they can no longer play the middle between Bregman and Marte — they need to prioritize one over the other.

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