Pete Alonso’s free agency has the potential to shake up the league, even as the Juan Soto sweepstakes dominate headlines. Alonso’s situation represents a significant opportunity for teams looking for a power-hitting cornerstone. While the Mets are an obvious contender to retain him, the dynamic shifts if they also pursue and land Juan Soto. Financially and strategically, this might lead Alonso to explore options elsewhere.
David Schoenfield’s prediction of Alonso signing with the Washington Nationals on a six-year, $159 million deal is intriguing. It aligns with the Nationals’ need for a veteran slugger to anchor their rebuilding efforts. Alonso would bring immediate power to a lineup that ranked near the bottom of the league in home runs, and his presence could be transformative for young talents like James Wood and Dylan Crews. The Nationals’ ownership’s history of successful negotiations with Scott Boras, Alonso’s agent, adds credibility to this prediction.
The comparison to the Jayson Werth signing in 2011 underscores the Nationals’ potential approach: a high-profile acquisition signaling a turning point for the franchise. Alonso in Washington would not only impact the Nationals’ trajectory but also reshape the competitive landscape of the NL East.
You’re right—Pete Alonso’s potential deal with the Nationals does make sense, even though the team hasn’t been widely linked to him yet. The fit is logical given Washington’s need for a power hitter to complement their young core. While Schoenfield’s projected six-year, $159 million deal could be on the conservative side, a $30 million average annual value (AAV), totaling $180 million over six years, seems more in line with Alonso’s market value and recent trends for star players.
Alonso’s ability to bring leadership and consistent power would be invaluable for the Nationals, especially with emerging talents like James Wood and Dylan Crews developing. Adding a veteran with his caliber could accelerate their rebuild and simultaneously weaken a divisional rival in the Mets. The Nationals have shown a willingness to make bold moves before, and a marquee signing like Alonso could signal their intent to return to contention in the NL East.
