Players pivoting to short-term deals with opt-outs have become increasingly common. Last winter, agent Scott Boras had four free agents -- the “Boras Four” -- who settled for shorter-term contracts with opt-outs when the long-term deals they had hoped for never materialized.

Alex Bregman remains on the open market, and the Chicago Cubs reportedly had "casual" talks with the star free agent.

The Cubs have suddenly entered the Alex Bregman free agency sweepstakes, but there is one clear condition in place.

As third baseman Alex Bregman’s free agency continues with his destination unknown, there could be a union with the Cubs down the road if he’s willing to accept a shorter-term contract.