Why Blue Jays should, and should not, add top free-agent slugger

The Toronto Blue Jays and first baseman Pete Alonso have been linked all through the offseason.

There are conflicting studies as as to whether or not the Blue Jays and Alonso are getting nearer to a contract. Andy Martino of SNY was considered one of a number of individuals to report that talks between the 2 sides are advancing. Nevertheless, Shi Davidi from Sportsnet disputes that assertion, saying that the talks are “not gaining momentum.” 

Likelihood is, if the Blue Jays do signal Alonso, it might require one other important contract. The primary baseman reportedly wished a contract exceeding Freddie Freeman and Matt Olson. Nevertheless, there are dangers with such a deal. Let’s take a look at three the reason why the Blue Jays ought to signal Pete Alonso and three the reason why they need to stroll away.

He would add one other energy menace to the lineup

First baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. was the one remaining member of the 2024 Blue Jays to have an OPS+ over 100 and greater than 100 plate appearances. They just lately signed Anthony Santander will present some safety for Guerrero within the lineup. Alonso, who has hit greater than 30 homers in each full season in his six-year profession, would make the lineup that a lot deeper.

Signing Alonso reveals dedication to contend

The Blue Jays have an elephant within the room in Guerrero. He’s within the ultimate 12 months of his contract and has given the Blue Jays till the beginning of spring coaching to barter an extension. Guerrero may additionally wish to see that the Blue Jays are severe about contending for the playoffs earlier than committing to a long-term deal. Including Alonso would present precisely that.

Alonso would step in for Guerrero if he leaves

In response to Jon Heyman of the New York Submit, Guerrero would like to play third base this season as an alternative of first. No matter his place, Guerrero’s potential departure after the 2025 season would go away a major gap within the lineup. Alonso would already be in place to melt that impression as a lot as doable.

Whereas Alonso is smart, there are causes to maneuver on.

How a lot would Alonso wish to be in Toronto?

The Blue Jays have had problem attracting high free brokers earlier than signing outfielder Anthony Santander. Whereas Alonso would additional present that stars will go to Toronto, it’s honest to surprise if he actually desires to be there. Alonso clearly desires to stick with the Mets, even reportedly providing the Mets a short-term deal to take action.

Alonso is trending in a regarding course

Whereas Alonso has been a constant energy menace, his current efficiency reveals purpose for concern. His OPS dropped by 81 factors between 2022 and 2024 whereas his strikeout charge climbed six p.c. Alonso has hit 80 homers over the previous two seasons, however has a disappointing .229/.324/.480 batting line in his 1353 plate appearances. His 34 homers in 2024 had been the bottom of any full season. 

Was Alonso urgent due to extension talks and/or free company or is he beginning to decline? 

How for much longer can Alonso play first base?

Alonso isn’t an excellent defensive first baseman. Whereas he’s satisfactory, he’s a major defensive downgrade from Guerrero. In all chance, Alonso might want to turn out to be a delegated hitter within the close to future. The identical holds true for Santander. 

Bringing Alonso in, particularly on a long term deal, could possibly be a good riskier proposition.