The past week saw a flurry of activity in the first baseman market, with several players either signing or being traded to new teams.
Notably absent from these moves was Pete Alonso. The free-agent slugger saw his options shrink as the Yankees, Astros, Guardians, Diamondbacks, and Nationals all signed or traded for first basemen.
Paul Goldschmidt, Christian Walker, Carlos Santana, Josh Naylor, and Nathaniel Lowe all found new homes.
While this activity may seem to suggest that Alonso will return to the Mets, where he has spent his career, neither Alonso nor his agent, Scott Boras, appear to be rushing into a decision.
So, is there still a market for Alonso outside of Queens? Let’s explore a few possible landing spots that could still make sense, even as his options narrow.
San Francisco Giants
After struggling in recent winters to secure a major free-agent bat, the Giants made a significant move by signing Willy Adames to a seven-year, $182 million contract.
A move for Alonso would generate even more buzz, particularly in a city where he has thrived at Oracle Park. In 17 career games there, Alonso has hit seven home runs, posting a .910 OPS.
The Giants currently use a platoon at first base, rotating LaMonte Wade Jr. and Wilmer Flores (who had a less-than-impressive season as the right-handed half of the duo).
Texas Rangers
The 2023 World Series champions remain in “win-now” mode, with a roster that includes Corey Seager, Marcus Semien, and Jacob deGrom.
Recently, the Rangers traded Nathaniel Lowe to Washington, which could open the door for Alonso to add more power to their lineup.
Jake Burger, who was acquired in a trade with the Marlins, is part of the first base mix but could also be considered for designated hitter and third base duties, leaving room for Alonso if the Rangers choose to sign him.
Seattle Mariners
The Mariners might not seem like an ideal destination for Alonso, considering the ballpark isn’t known for being a home-run haven. Still, with the team ranking 21st in MLB in runs scored last season, adding a bat like Alonso’s could help their offense.
Luke Raley, who played both first base and outfield last season, currently tops the Mariners’ first-base depth chart. Last season, the Mariners used a committee approach at the position, with Ty France and Justin Turner also contributing.
St. Louis Cardinals
With Paul Goldschmidt departing through free agency to join the Yankees on a one-year deal, Alonso could fit in as the Cardinals’ new first baseman. However, the team has shown little inclination to spend heavily this offseason, so it’s unclear if they would offer Alonso a substantial contract.
While the Cardinals have Alec Burleson, who played first base and brought a respectable left-handed bat (.734 OPS) last season, it’s uncertain if the team will stick with him or pursue a bigger move.
Los Angeles Angels
The Angels find themselves in a rebuilding phase after losing Shohei Ohtani and dealing with frequent injuries to Mike Trout. Adding Alonso would provide a spark to a team that finished last season with a 99-loss record.
Though Angels owner Arte Moreno has previously shown a willingness to spend big on hitters, he might be more cautious after the mixed results of contracts with Albert Pujols and Trout.
Last season, Nolan Schanuel posted a pedestrian .705 OPS as the Angels’ regular first baseman, making Alonso a potentially impactful addition to their lineup.
