The Boston Red Sox head into the offseason facing similar questions about offensive consistency, and one clear answer might be waiting in free agency. After another New York Mets collapse, going 21-34 following the beginning of August and missing the playoffs by a tiebreaker, their star first baseman, Pete Alonso, has opted out of his two-year deal with the Mets that he signed in 2024.
The soon-to-be free agent slugger is expected to headline the market after six seasons as one of baseball's premier power hitters in New York. Alonso's combination of elite home run production and durability could provide exactly what the Red Sox have lacked since J.D. Martinez's departure back in 2022. He would be a true middle-of-the-order threat capable of carrying an offense through the dog days of summer and into October.
As someone with playoff experience, including a few clutch moments, the fit almost makes too much sense. The Sox finished in the middle of the pack in home runs in 2025, relying heavily on streaky power from Wilyer Abreu or Trevor Story, or even Roman Anthony or Jarren Duran as well. Before 2025, their only power source was Rafael Devers. With Triston Casas' future uncertain and no clear slugger on the roster, Alonso represents both a statement signing and a necessary upgrade.
Financially, Boston is well-positioned to make a major splash on the free agent market. If the Red Sox truly want to send a message about contending in 2026, offering Alonso a contract that's in the range of six years and $180-200 million could accomplish just that.
Alonso has hit a career 264 home runs with an NL-leading 41 doubles, and has, in fact, played a full season of 162 games in the last two consecutive years.
Beyond the numbers, Alonso brings the type of edge and professionalism the Red Sox clubhouse needs. He's been a model of consistency, averaging over 40 homers per season, and his right-handed power profile is tailor-made for Fenway Park.
His presence would also help protect younger hitters like Anthony and Ceddanne Rafaela, allowing them to grow further and mold into what they're supposed to be without having the burden of anchoring their lineup. Arguably so, that's what both of them were doing at certain times of this season.
While pitching remains the top priority, adding Alonso would change the dynamic of Boston's offense overnight. The Red Sox have spent the past few years toeing the line between rebuilding and retooling. Signing Alonso would end that ambiguity and reestablish the club as a legitimate powerhouse in the AL. If they're serious about it, of course...