Following a successful 2025 MLB campaign, the Boston Red Sox are looking to upgrade the roster once more. The needs are clear: re-sign Alex Bregman, sign or trade for a No. 2 starter and a right-handed power bat. The right-handed bat is the one that is going to be the hardest for Boston to check off the list.
In 2025, the Sox got Alex Bregman to fill that role, and he did so successfully, but it wasn't enough. Boston still found itself left-handed heavy. The Sox also need more pop in the lineup. Trevor Story led the team with 25 home runs in 2025, and Wilyer Abreu was the only other player to eclipse 20. As a team, Boston was 15th in MLB in home runs.
Luckily for Boston, one of the best right-handed hitters in the sport is a free agent this offseason. Pete Alonso finds himself on the open market for the second winter in a row. The longtime Mets first baseman could be the answer to the Red Sox's problems.
Just like last year, Alonso is looking for a long-term commitment. Unlike last year, he is coming off a career season. While reports suggest Alonso and agent Scott Boras are seeking a seven-year deal, experts don't think he’ll get near that number.
Congratulations to Pete Alonso on winning the National League Silver Slugger award at first base! 👏 pic.twitter.com/EZrJVAhfqG
— New York Mets (@Mets) November 6, 2025
A shorter term, high AAV contract might be the key to getting Alonso in Boston
A seven-year deal might price the Red Sox out of the market, but ESPN MLB insider Kiley McDaniel’s contract projection is a much more reasonable number they should heavily consider. McDaniel thinks the five-time All-Star will get a four-year, $110 million contract this winter.
Headed into his age-31 season, most believe that Alonso may be a full-time designated hitter by the end of his next contract. That will hurt his value in the market, but for the Sox, it shouldn't be a problem. The Opening Day spot at first base in 2026 is open. Triston Casas needs to prove himself again, and he isn't guaranteed a spot on the Opening Day roster.
If Casas does prove himself again, either he or Alonso can slide to DH. Masataka Yoshida’s contract only has two years and $36 million left. It should be easier to move him this offseason, or eat the money and designate him for assignment.
Either way, committing to Alonso for four years is much more reasonable than seven. Alonso can play first base this coming year and potentially next until Yoshida is gone, and then slide to DH. If the Sox are truly looking for power from the right-handed side, Alonso on that contract should be the top priority.