Red Sox Pursue Pete Alonso Amid Orioles Interest
In a pivotal offseason, the Boston Red Sox are actively pursuing Pete Alonso, while the Baltimore Orioles show interest as well. This situation is getting attention due to Alonso’s established abilities as a middle-of-the-order hitter.
Red Sox Target Alonso Amid Age Concerns
Red Sox President of Baseball Operations, Craig Breslow, acknowledged the complexity of roster decisions. As the organization evaluates players, they must consider individual needs alongside team requirements.
Alonso, 31, is viewed as a strong asset due to his right-handed batting and durability. Furthermore, he has family connections in Boston, which makes the fit even more appealing. However, the Red Sox hesitate partially due to concerns surrounding Alonso’s age. Historically, player performance tends to decline as they advance past 30, which has led to cautious investments in older free agents.
Comparative Strategy: Young Talent vs. Established Players
This offseason, the Red Sox successfully extended contracts for younger players like Garrett Crochet and Roman Anthony, both of whom are in their 20s. In contrast, the situation with Alonso raises questions about the future of veteran third baseman Alex Bregman.
Bregman, entering his 32nd year in March, is seeking a long-term contract following a season marred by injury. While the Red Sox, particularly manager Alex Cora, appreciate Bregman’s contributions both on and off the field, the organization is wary of lengthy contracts. Breslow emphasized that a player’s past performance can provide insights into future potential, which complicates decisions regarding older free agents like Bregman and Alonso.
Other Free Agent Options
Beyond Alonso, the Red Sox are considering a range of free agents. Third baseman Eugenio Suarez is among their targets, along with Japanese infielders Munetaka Murakami and Kazuma Okamoto. Additionally, middle infielder Bo Bichette remains a prominent option for teams on the market.
| Player Name | Position | Age |
|---|---|---|
| Alex Bregman | 3B | 32 |
| Pete Alonso | 1B | 31 |
| Eugenio Suarez | 3B | 28 |
| Bo Bichette | SS | 27 |
As the Winter Meetings conclude, Breslow reiterated that the team remains focused on filling roster needs. Adding power hitters is a priority for the Red Sox, signaling potential changes in strategy should Alonso and other desired players pursue different options.
For the Orioles, acquiring Alonso represents an opportunity to enhance their lineup with a veteran presence. Following a challenging season, the Orioles are focused on securing elite talents to boost their performance.
With the winter season underway, expect the Red Sox to navigate these complex decisions carefully while continuing to seek ways to improve their roster. Both organizations are actively shaping their paths as they eye the upcoming season.
