Orioles Make Bold Move with Pete Alonso Signing
The Baltimore Orioles have made a significant move in the MLB offseason by signing first baseman Pete Alonso to a five-year, $155 million contract. This deal marks the franchise’s largest commitment under president of baseball operations Mike Elias, showcasing a renewed financial aggressiveness that fans have been eagerly awaiting.
Bold Offseason Moves
The signing of Alonso follows a near-miss with free-agent Kyle Schwarber, indicating the Orioles’ willingness to invest in high-caliber players. Alongside Alonso, the team has added outfielder Leodys Taveras and reliever Ryan Helsley, and they executed a trade for Taylor Ward. Combined, Alonso and Ward contributed 74 home runs last season.
- Contract: Five years, $155 million for Pete Alonso
- Other Additions: Leodys Taveras, Ryan Helsley
- Trade Acquired: Taylor Ward
Alonso’s presence opens opportunities for the Orioles to consider trading their surplus of first basemen and corner outfielders, including Ryan Mountcastle and Coby Mayo. Rumors suggest the team may seek starting pitchers like MacKenzie Gore of Washington or Edward Cabrera from Miami.
Alonso’s Impact on the Team
At 31, Alonso is seen as a player who embodies the star power the Orioles need. His impressive stats, including a .272 batting average, 38 home runs, and 126 RBIs last season, significantly enhance the roster. Additionally, Alonso has demonstrated remarkable durability, appearing in all 162 games for the past two seasons.
Despite potential concerns regarding his defensive skills and base running as he ages, Alonso’s offensive capabilities remain strong. The Orioles are banking on his ability to elevate their competitive standing after a mixed performance in previous seasons.
Recent Performance and Fan Expectations
As the Orioles continue to improve, fans are hopeful this offseason will lead to greater success. After a rapid rise from 52 wins in 2021 to 101 wins in 2023, the team has reached a pivotal moment to build on past performance. This renewed strategy signifies that the organization is committed to investing in its future.
With Alonso’s signing, the Orioles aim to send a clear message to both their fanbase and potential free agents: they are ready to spend actively to win, demonstrating they are serious contenders in the competitive landscape of Major League Baseball.
As the offseason progresses, the focus remains on addressing the critical need for stable starting pitching. The Orioles’ recent activities suggest they are not afraid to take calculated risks as they aim for a successful 2024 season.
