The buzz around Juan Soto’s free agency is overshadowing the significance of Pete Alonso’s offseason decision for the New York Mets. In most years, Alonso’s future would dominate league-altering discussions, but with Soto taking center stage, Alonso’s situation is flying under the radar.
However, Alonso’s next move could have a major impact, and it’s far from guaranteed he’ll stay with the Mets—especially if they land Soto.
ESPN’s David Schoenfield projects Alonso signing a six-year, $159 million deal with the Washington Nationals, a surprising choice given their lack of prior connection to the slugger. Schoenfield explains that the Nationals, a young team that finished near the bottom in home runs, could use Alonso’s power and veteran leadership to complement rising stars like James Wood and Dylan Crews.
The move would also fill their need at first base. Schoenfield notes that Alonso’s agent, Scott Boras, has successfully negotiated significant deals with the Nationals’ ownership before.
While the Nationals have been under the radar in Alonso’s sweepstakes, the fit makes sense. The predicted $159 million deal feels a bit conservative, as Alonso could command closer to $180 million over six years, with an average annual value of $30 million.
Still, stealing a star like Alonso from a division rival would be a bold statement by Washington, strengthening their young core and accelerating their rebuilding process.
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