The Red Sox-Astros rivalry is a powder keg, and former Golden Glove winner Alex Bregman‘s $120 million move to Boston has the potential to ignite it. But before Bregman even sets foot in Fenway, he’s received a playful, yet meaningful message from a Red Sox legend.

“Uncle” Kevin Millar‘s five-word demand – “Watch The Comeback on Netflix” is both a nod to Red Sox history and a declaration of propriety and achievement.

Millar’s Instagram post directed Bregman to do his “homework” before stepping foot into the team – a terse, warm, and symbolic note.

The selection of The Comeback is deliberate. It is not some random documentary on 3-0 comebacks, but a paragon of the Red Sox’s exceptional victory over the New York Yankees in the 2004 ALCS. Millar is one of the heroes of that sacred season. He is effectively, if not bluntly, telling Bregman that this is what is done in Boston. This is us. We overcome savvy adversity. We win championships. You are now part of the story.

Meanwhile, Red Sox Nation is all over Bregman and Millar. Social media is trending with memes and comments, and many Red Sox fans are smirking. You may think of it as a jocular welcome to Boston, or cling to the Astros sign-stealing scandal during the 2017 season and still blame Breggy as a “Cheater.”

But this post is mostly a reminder to Bregman of what he now carries on his shoulders – the history and expectations of the Red Sox.

Well, the dragged-out rivalry between Boston and Houston was once a motivation for Alex Bregman. Remember how he wanted to defeat his present team, especially after their loss in the 2018 ALCS? And that gives hope to fans. Maybe A-Breg can summon that killer edge to lead the Red Sox to victory over his former teammates.

Beyond the game: Bregman’s arrival and the legacy of Millar

Although Bregman had a good season – a slash line of .260/.315/.453 with 26 homers and 30 doubles, it couldn’t hit that extra mile to convince fans that he is at his absolute peak. But Red Sox’s 3-year contract can become a comeback deal for him – a chance to reset his potential and redefine his career trajectory.

Tbh, Bregman was not the only choice for the Sox. They were rumored to be interested in Nolan Arenado, Pete Alonso, and Anthony Santander. Arenado was too expensive and inflexible. Alonso was not a positional fit. Santander was a defensive liability. So, Bregman ultimately made the most sense because of his positional flexibility (plays third or even slides over to second), veteran leadership, and offensive profile that can thrive in Fenway’s hitter-friendly park dimensions.

Adding Bregman addresses this mid-order drag, squarely. Last season, the Sox averaged 4.64 runs per game, a clear indication that they struggled to sustain the offensive punch through the order. Bregman’s extra-base bat and clutch track record should reverse this trend. He’ll boost the punch, stats-wise, but he’ll also boost when things heat up.

And for the Red Sox fans, Millar is a legendary figure. Message from a member of the championship squad in 2004 – well, that does make Bregman more impactful.

The history between the Red Sox-Astros rivalry is fraught with playoff drama and flare-ups. And if Millar’s message is any indication, Breggy’s presence will only intensify it. Do you think A-Breg will be able to live up to the hype?