The buzz around Juan Soto’s potential destination is overshadowing the significance of Pete Alonso’s upcoming free agency decision for the New York Mets. In almost any other offseason, Alonso’s situation would dominate discussions as a potentially league-altering move. However, with Soto in the spotlight, Alonso’s future hasn’t received the same level of attention.
Despite this, Alonso’s decision could have a major impact on the league. A return to the Mets is far from guaranteed, especially if the team secures Soto. ESPN’s David Schoenfield predicts Alonso could instead land with a National League East rival, signing a six-year, $159 million deal with the Washington Nationals.
“They’re an incredibly young team, and after ranking next-to-last in the majors in home runs, the Nats need a power hitter. Alonso would make a big statement — similar to the Jayson Werth signing in 2011 — and provide a veteran presence to help the young hitters such as James Wood and Dylan Crews while filling the hole at first base,” Schoenfield wrote. “Keep in mind that Boras, Alonso’s agent, has struck several big deals in the past with the Lerner family, the Nationals’ owners.”
The Washington Nationals haven’t been prominently linked to Pete Alonso in free agency, but the connection makes sense. While ESPN’s prediction of a six-year, $159 million deal seems a bit low, Alonso is expected to command closer to $30 million in average annual value, potentially pushing a six-year contract to around $180 million.
Regardless of the exact figure, Alonso would be a strong fit in Washington. Adding his power bat to the Nationals’ emerging young core would be a strategic move, especially within the division. Poaching a star like Alonso from a rival could accelerate Washington’s rebuilding efforts and signal a shift toward contention.
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