Why Red Sox Passed on Pete Alonso: Craig Breslow Explains

The Boston Red Sox came into this offseason hoping to land a big-time power hitter. As the 2025 MLB Winter Meetings wrap up, though, they’re left watching two of the market’s biggest sluggers sign elsewhere.

Kyle Schwarber heads back to Philadelphia. Pete Alonso is joining the up-and-coming Baltimore Orioles. Boston’s front office, led by Craig Breslow, now has to rethink its approach. Maybe it’s time to focus on keeping their own star, Alex Bregman, instead of chasing the flashiest names.

Pete Alonso Chooses Orioles Over Red Sox

Word broke that Pete Alonso is close to a five-year, $155 million deal with the Baltimore Orioles. That move ends Boston’s hopes of landing the All-Star first baseman.

For Red Sox fans, Alonso’s choice stings—especially since Schwarber had just slipped away, too. The front office did talk with Alonso’s representatives and made an offer, but it didn’t match Baltimore’s in years or total value.

Boston wasn’t willing to go as long or as high as the Orioles. In the end, Alonso picked Baltimore’s bigger commitment.

Why Alonso “Didn’t Line Up Right” for Boston

Red Sox chief baseball officer Craig Breslow didn’t mince words about the Alonso pursuit. To him, Alonso just “didn’t line up right” with Boston’s plans.

That comment says a lot about how the team views its roster and payroll. Breslow and his staff seem to care about more than just home runs when handing out nine-figure contracts.

They’re looking at fit, flexibility, and how each deal affects future moves. It’s not just about the biggest bat.

Red Sox Push Back on Big-Contract Narrative

Missing out on both Alonso and Schwarber has critics saying the Red Sox won’t spend on top free agents. Breslow pushed back on that idea and insisted the team isn’t against major deals—they just want the right ones.

Reports say Boston’s offer to Alonso was shorter and for less guaranteed money than Baltimore’s. That difference makes it clear: the Red Sox are setting limits on contract length and money, even for star hitters.

Front Office Stance: Discipline Over Desperation

Breslow keeps saying the club will do what’s best for the long haul, not just chase headlines. He wants to avoid contracts that lock up payroll and limit future flexibility.

Schwarber Off the Board, Focus Shifts to Alex Bregman

Alonso’s news came right after Kyle Schwarber re-signed with the Philadelphia Phillies. That shut another door on a power upgrade for Boston.

Schwarber seemed like a natural fit—lefty bat, on-base skills, playoff experience—but Philly moved fast to keep him. Now, with those big names gone, the Red Sox are expected to turn their attention to their own free agent: Alex Bregman.

Bregman Becomes the New Offseason Priority

Bregman stands out as Boston’s biggest decision. He’s an All-Star third baseman and a proven force in the lineup.

Instead of spending big on outsiders, maybe the Red Sox will invest in a player they already trust. Expect contract talks about Bregman to heat up soon.

Whether they keep him or let him test free agency will shape Boston’s future for years.

Winter Meetings End, but Red Sox Offseason Work Continues

The 2025 MLB Winter Meetings ended on Wednesday, after a flurry of deals and rumors around the league. The Red Sox didn’t land the headline-grabbing star fans wanted, but Breslow says the front office isn’t done yet.

He told fans Boston will keep looking for value and impact, wherever they can find it. That might mean:

Active, But Selective, in the Market

The Red Sox lost out on two top power hitters, but they aren’t just sitting back. This winter, they seem less interested in chasing flashy names.

Instead, they’re piecing together a roster that looks more versatile and sustainable. The goal? Compete not just this season, but for a few years down the road.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Craig Breslow Explains Why Red Sox Didn’t Sign Pete Alonso