Why Red Sox might prefer Alonso in search for big bat

MLB.com is keeping track of the latest news and rumors surrounding Pete Alonso.

Dec. 3: Why Red Sox might prefer Alonso in search for big bat
The Red Sox already checked off one major need with their trade for starter Sonny Gray and are now looking for a middle-of-the-order bat.

Alex Bregman, Kyle Schwarber and Alonso are all possibilities, but the latter appears to be the best fit for Boston's needs. MLB.com's Ian Browne explains why. More >

Nov. 17: Will Red Sox go all out to sign Alonso?
Alex Bregman was productive on the field and influential in the clubhouse this past season with the Red Sox. Boston would probably like to bring his bat, glove and leadership back, but it remains to be seen if it will give the third baseman, who turns 32 in March, the lengthy contract he likely desires in free agency.

If Bregman does sign elsewhere, Boston could pivot quickly to Alonso. MLB Network insider Jon Paul Morosi said on Monday that he thinks the Red Sox will either re-sign Bregman or "they make an all-out pursuit" for the Polar Bear.

"I believe the Red Sox are the strongest contender of anyone to take Pete Alonso away from the New York Mets," Morosi said. "... I think Alonso to the Red Sox has some real legs if they don't bring back Alex Bregman."

The Mets and Alonso recently began contract talks, according to a report from MLB Network insider Jon Heyman in the New York Post (subscription required). But his right-handed bat would seem to be a perfect fit for Fenway Park and the Green Monster in left field. Boston's first basemen had a .386 slugging percentage last year. Alonso has a career slug of .516, including .524 this season. While losing Bregman would create a void at the hot corner, the Red Sox could fill it with former top prospect Marcelo Mayer.

Nov. 13: Mets, Alonso reportedly open talks, but his market is 'robust'
The Mets and Alonso have begun talks on a new contract, according to a report from MLB Network insider Jon Heyman in the New York Post (subscription required). Not only that, but Heyman reports that the talks seem to be going better than they did last offseason, when Alonso sought a long-term contract but ended up taking a two-year $54 million deal with the Mets that included an opt-out after the 2025 season, which Alonso exercised.

Mets baseball president David Stearns told reporters this week that he’d love to have Alonso back, given his production potential and the protection he offers slugger Juan Soto in the lineup. But the team could have stronger competition for Alonso's services than last offseason, as Heyman expects interest in Alonso's bat to be "robust."

In addition to the Mets, Heyman says Alonso could draw interest from a slew of teams, including the Giants, Red Sox, Mariners, Yankees and Phillies.