The Toronto Blue Jays have landed a significant offseason prize, officially signing four-time All-Star slugger Pete Alonso to a long-term deal. With options dwindling for the 29-year-old first baseman and the Blue Jays desperate to add star power, the move marks a major win for Toronto as they look to solidify their lineup and contend in 2025.
The New York Mets had hoped to retain Alonso, but their historic 15-year, $765 million contract with Juan Soto this offseason left little room to keep the power-hitting first baseman. According to SNY’s Andy Martino, the Mets shifted to alternative plans after accepting that Alonso would not re-sign with the club.
“The Mets have pivoted to plan B, post-Alonso,” Martino wrote on X. “They now consider it the most likely outcome that Alonso will sign elsewhere.”
Toronto had been searching for a big-name addition after missing out on stars like Juan Soto and Roki Sasaki earlier this offseason. By securing Alonso, the Blue Jays have injected much-needed firepower into their lineup. Pairing Alonso with Anthony Santander and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. gives Toronto a formidable offensive core, setting the stage for a strong 2025 campaign.
Baseball analyst Jim Riley emphasized the significance of this signing:
“There is a desperate team in Toronto trying to spend money and improve the club. Pairing Alonso and Guerrero for 2025 is a game-changer. Alonso also provides insurance for the future if Guerrero does not re-sign.”
Since debuting in 2019, Alonso has been one of baseball’s premier sluggers, leading the National League in home runs during that span. The only player with more homers in the same period is Aaron Judge of the New York Yankees.
Toronto plans to move Guerrero to third base to accommodate Alonso at first, creating a dynamic middle of the order. This pairing could be the catalyst the Blue Jays need to finally overcome their postseason struggles.
With Alonso in the fold, the Blue Jays have signaled they are all-in for 2025. Beyond that, Alonso’s presence could be a key factor in convincing Guerrero to re-sign when he becomes a free agent in 2026.
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