BREAKING NEWS: Hollywood star Mark Wahlberg sent a special gift to Alex Bregman to boost teammate morale before joining the Chicago Cubs with a record-breaking contract.
In a heartwarming display of celebrity support crossing over into the world of professional baseball, Hollywood actor and avid sports enthusiast Mark Wahlberg has reportedly sent a special gift to newly signed Chicago Cubs third baseman Alex Bregman. The gesture, coming just ahead of Bregman’s highly anticipated debut with the team, is said to be aimed at uplifting the spirits of his new teammates as they prepare for the 2026 MLB season.
The news arrives amid the excitement surrounding Bregman’s blockbuster free-agent signing with the Cubs. On January 10, 2026, the club finalized a five-year, $175 million contract with the three-time All-Star, marking one of the most significant additions in recent Cubs history. The deal, which includes $70 million in deferred payments and a full no-trade clause, averages $35 million per year and sets a club record for annual value when adjusted for present-day calculations. It positions Bregman as a cornerstone of Chicago’s push to return to World Series contention after years of building a young, talented core.
Bregman’s journey to the North Side has been anything but straightforward. The 31-year-old Albuquerque native first entered free agency following a stellar tenure with the Houston Astros, where he won two World Series titles and established himself as one of the game’s premier third basemen. Known for his elite defense, clutch hitting, and leadership qualities, Bregman signed a three-year, $120 million pact with the Boston Red Sox ahead of the 2025 season. That contract included opt-out provisions, which he exercised after one year, propelling him back onto the open market.
The Cubs had aggressively pursued Bregman the previous offseason but fell short when he opted for Boston. Undeterred, Chicago’s front office, led by President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer, circled back with an enhanced offer this winter. The persistence paid off on an unforgettable Chicago sports night in mid-January, coinciding with a thrilling Bears playoff victory over the Green Bay Packers. Sources indicate that the Cubs’ willingness to incorporate substantial deferrals—echoing successful past deals like those for Jon Lester and Jason Heyward—helped seal the agreement.
The $175 million commitment underscores a shift in organizational philosophy, signaling that the standard for the Cubs is now nothing short of a World Series title.
Enter Mark Wahlberg, whose connection to Bregman adds a unique layer to this offseason saga. The actor, a longtime Boston Red Sox supporter, developed a friendship with Bregman during his time in Houston and later in Boston. Wahlberg has publicly praised the infielder, once calling him his “favorite Yankee killer” in reference to Bregman’s standout performances against New York in playoff matchups. Their bond has been highlighted in interviews and social media moments over the years, with Wahlberg even throwing out ceremonial first pitches and engaging with players in clubhouse settings.
While details of the gift remain private—speculation ranges from personalized memorabilia tied to Wahlberg’s Flecha Azul Tequila brand (which he has promoted in Chicago recently) to something more sentimental like custom workout gear or a motivational message—the intent is clear: to boost morale among Bregman’s new teammates. As Bregman transitions to a new city, new clubhouse, and new expectations, the thoughtful gesture from a high-profile friend serves as an early vote of confidence. It reminds the team that support extends beyond the diamond, especially during a pivotal time of adjustment.
Bregman’s arrival addresses a long-standing need for the Cubs at third base. With Dansby Swanson already anchoring shortstop under a seven-year, $177 million deal, the duo forms one of the most formidable infield combinations in the National League. Bregman’s veteran presence—boasting a career .273 batting average, 209 home runs, and consistent Gold Glove-caliber defense—is expected to stabilize the lineup and provide mentorship to younger players. Projections suggest he will deliver around 3.8-4.0 WAR in his first season, comparable to other top free-agent acquisitions this cycle.
The signing also reflects broader trends in MLB economics. Deferrals have become a creative tool for teams to manage luxury-tax implications while offering players substantial guarantees. For the Cubs, this move—combined with recent playoff appearances—demonstrates a commitment to contending now rather than rebuilding. Fans in Chicago have responded enthusiastically, with social media buzzing about the team’s aggressive winter and visions of October baseball at Wrigley Field.
Wahlberg’s involvement, though off-field, resonates in a league where celebrity crossovers are increasingly common. From ownership stakes to promotional appearances, stars like Wahlberg bring added visibility. His gift, coming at a moment of transition for Bregman, symbolizes encouragement from the entertainment world to the baseball world. It may inspire the Cubs’ clubhouse as they head into spring training, reminding players of the broader impact they have and the support surrounding their pursuit of excellence.
As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on how Bregman integrates into the Cubs’ culture and contributes to their goals. With a record-setting contract in hand and a special nod from Hollywood royalty, the third baseman steps into one of the most storied franchises in sports carrying momentum and high expectations. Whether the gift includes a case of tequila, a custom chain, or simply words of wisdom, its message is unmistakable: the best is yet to come for Alex Bregman and the Chicago Cubs.
