In a significant move, the Baltimore Orioles are finalizing a five-year contract with Pete Alonso, the former Mets first baseman. The deal is reported to be worth $155 million, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan. Only a physical examination remains before the agreement is finalized, as noted by Joel Sherman of the New York Post.
Details of the Agreement
The contract includes no deferrals or opt-outs, enhancing its attractiveness to Alonso. Additionally, he will receive a limited no-trade clause, as confirmed by MassLive.com’s Chris Cotillo. Alonso is represented by the Boras Corporation.
A Changing Landscape for the Mets
This transaction marks the second significant player departure from the New York Mets within 48 hours. Just a day earlier, pitcher Edwin Diaz chose to join the Los Angeles Dodgers on a three-year deal worth $69 million. Alonso’s decision to join the Orioles comes after an in-person meeting this week in Baltimore.
Orioles’ Strategic Focus
Throughout the offseason, the Orioles have aimed to bolster their roster, notably looking to enhance their batting lineup. They had previously offered Kyle Schwarber a five-year contract worth $150 million, which he accepted to remain with the Philadelphia Phillies. The Orioles’ commitment to Alonso reflects their determination to secure a powerful hitter.
Understanding Alonso’s Contract Context
Turning 31 recently, Alonso had previously declined a seven-year, $158 million extension from the Mets in 2023. This decision attracted criticism, especially as his free agency did not unfold as favorably as anticipated. After returning to the Mets on a two-year, $54 million deal, which included a frontloaded salary of $30 million in 2025, Alonso now has the option to re-enter free agency.
Overall, the combination of Alonso’s last arbitration earnings of $20.5 million and this new Orioles agreement will bring his total earnings to $205.5 million over the same seven-year period covered by the rejected Mets extension.
