Should the Orioles Pursue Pete Alonso? Fit, Cost and Outlook

This blog post dives into one of the offseason’s more intriguing trades — a veteran-for-veteran swap between the New York Mets and Texas Rangers. We’ll look at how it might shape the future of star slugger Pete Alonso.

From roster strategy to possible free-agent destinations, there’s a lot to unpack. We’ll also dip into some nostalgic Orioles history along the way because, well, why not?

Mets and Rangers Complete Veteran Swap

The Mets and Rangers pulled off a straight-up exchange: outfielder Brandon Nimmo heads to Texas, while second baseman Marcus Semien joins New York. Both guys are big names, though neither is quite at their peak anymore.

For New York, the move was about reshaping the roster and grabbing some financial flexibility. It feels like they’re trying to set themselves up for bigger decisions soon.

Player Profiles and Current Value

Brandon Nimmo brings his trademark on-base skills to the Rangers. He’s still solid at the plate, but his defense has slipped a bit lately.

Marcus Semien heads to the Mets with a strong glove at second base. His bat, though, isn’t what it used to be.

The Mets now have some long-term payroll relief. That extra room could matter a lot as they decide what to do next in free agency, especially with Pete Alonso’s future up in the air.

Pete Alonso’s Free Agency Looms Large

Alonso is about to hit the open market, and the Mets’ new budget flexibility suddenly looks pretty important. The big first baseman — known for crushing home runs — bounced back in 2025 after a rough year before that.

His consistency is kind of wild:

• Career average of 42 home runs per season
• 2025 stats: .871 OPS, 38 homers, 126 RBIs
• He’s proven himself in the postseason, too

Potential Fit with the Baltimore Orioles

ESPN’s Jorge Castillo threw out the idea that the Baltimore Orioles could chase Alonso. Baltimore’s lineup could use a right-handed power bat, but they already have Ryan Mountcastle, Coby Mayo, and Samuel Basallo sharing first base and DH.

If they want Alonso, the Orioles might need to trade one of those young hitters for pitching help. That’s a tough call for a team trying to balance youth and experience.

Alonso would give Baltimore a real jolt of power and playoff experience. But at nearly 31, any team signing him has to wonder how long he’ll stay productive on a big contract.

Contract Projections

MLB Trade Rumors and other sources peg Alonso’s likely deal at about four years and $110 million. Since there’s no qualifying offer attached, teams wouldn’t lose a draft pick if they sign him.

Risk Versus Reward

Alonso’s power and intensity make him a tempting target. Still, handing out big contracts to players in their 30s always feels risky.

Teams have to weigh immediate production against the chance of a future drop-off. If you’re a contender, maybe the upside is worth the risk.

Orioles History and Nostalgia

All this trade talk and Alonso speculation stirs up a bit of Orioles nostalgia. The team still beams about Cal Ripken Jr. winning Rookie of the Year in 1982 — a pretty iconic moment.

Plus, a few birthday shoutouts go out to former Oriole Ben McDonald and some other familiar faces connected to the club. It’s always nice to remember where you came from.

What’s Next?

The next few weeks could get interesting. The Mets have put themselves in a spot where keeping Alonso seems possible.

But let’s be honest, teams like the Orioles might jump in and make things messy. The Rangers are crossing their fingers that Nimmo’s bat sparks another run in October.

The Mets, meanwhile, are counting on Semien to tighten up the infield with his glove. There’s a lot riding on these moves, and nobody’s pretending otherwise.

This offseason’s already packed with big trades and surprises. These deals aren’t just about swapping players—they’re about shifting financial freedom, shaking up team identity, and chasing new strategies.

The Mets-Rangers trade? It might just kick off a wild chain of moves that’ll reshape the 2026 MLB season. Who knows what’s coming next?

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Here is the source article for this story: Monday Bird Droppings: Should the Orioles be in on Pete Alonso?