Pete Alonso Signs $155M Deal with AL East Rival, Snubs Red Sox
Slugger Pete Alonso has signed a notable contract with an American League East rival, the Baltimore Orioles. This five-year deal, valued at $155 million, was reported by ESPN’s Jeff Passan. Alonso’s decision comes as a surprise to many, especially after he was seen as a strong candidate for the Boston Red Sox lineup.
Details of the Contract
The terms of Alonso’s contract are substantial. It features no opt-outs or deferrals, underlining the Orioles’ serious commitment to the player. This agreement represents a significant investment in Alonso’s power-hitting capabilities as he joins a competitive roster in Baltimore.
Red Sox Pursuit of Alonso
The Red Sox were reported to have made a formal offer to Alonso. The team actively pursued him, showing interest throughout the offseason. They even organized a Zoom meeting with his representatives at Boras Corporation prior to the Winter Meetings. However, it remains uncertain how close they came to securing him.
Context of the Offseason
- Alonso opted out of his previous contract with the New York Mets after the last season.
- He hit 38 home runs in the last season and has a total of 264 home runs in 1,008 games since his debut in 2019.
- Fellow slugger Kyle Schwarber signed with the Philadelphia Phillies for five years and $150 million shortly before Alonso’s agreement.
Implications for the Red Sox
With Alonso off the market, the Red Sox will have to explore alternative options to enhance their offensive lineup. Potential trade targets include:
- Ketel Marte from the Arizona Diamondbacks
- Isaac Paredes from the Houston Astros
Additionally, free agents such as Bo Bichette, Alex Bregman, and Eugenio Suarez remain available for consideration.
Strategic Goals
Craig Breslow, the chief baseball officer for the Red Sox, emphasized the importance of home runs to their scoring strategy. He noted that while power hitters can lead to runs, they often come with trade-offs in contact ability. The Red Sox are focused on finding a hitter who can significantly impact their lineup.
As the offseason progresses, the Red Sox will continue to search for solutions to boost their offensive production. The loss of Alonso to the Orioles marks a shift in the competitive landscape of the AL East.
