RUMOR CHECK: Red Sox Plotting $280M Pete Alonso Heist.vcRUMOR CHECK: Red Sox Plotting $280M Pete Alonso Heist.vc
The news suggesting the Boston Red Sox are preparing a “massive 7-year, $280 million offer” to steal Pete Alonso from the New York Mets is a prominent rumor in the current offseason, but the specific $280 million figure lacks official confirmation from credible insiders and appears to be based on analysts’ speculation about the length of the deal.
However, the underlying premise—that the Red Sox are the strongest contender to pry Alonso away from the Mets—is widely reported by MLB analysts and executives.1 This move would fulfill Red Sox GM Craig Breslow’s publicly stated goal of adding a major “thumper” to the lineup.
The Contract Reality vs. The Red Sox Need
The $280 million valuation would put Alonso’s Average Annual Value (AAV) at $40 million, a price that is likely inflated, but the seven-year term is consistent with what Alonso’s agent, Scott Boras, is reportedly seeking.
| Metric | Details |
| Alonso’s Seeking Term | At least seven years, according to reports. |
| Industry Contract Prediction | Varies widely, but one analyst projected 6 years, $182 million (approx. $30.3M AAV). |
| Red Sox Largest FA Deal | David Price (7 years, $217 million). The Alonso offer would top this. |
Why Boston is the Best Fit Outside of Queens:
- Massive Need: The Red Sox non-tendered their 2025 first baseman, Nathaniel Lowe, and the injury to Triston Casas has created a massive hole at first base and DH.2 Alonso, a three-time All-Star, is a perfect fit to anchor their lineup with right-handed power.3
- Fenway Park Advantage: Alonso’s powerful pull-side swing is tailor-made for the short distance to the Green Monster in left field, making Fenway Park an ideal destination to maximize his offensive production.4
- Financial Flexibility: The Red Sox are shedding significant payroll (including Alex Bregman, who opted out) and are actively signaling a willingness to spend to placate a frustrated fanbase. Signing Alonso would be a clear, bold “power play” that proves the “penny-pinching” is over.
- Rivalry Chaos: The move would not only strengthen Boston but simultaneously weaken their biggest rival, the New York Mets, marking a “boldest act of rivalry baseball” in years.
The Mets’ Position
The Mets and Alonso have begun contract talks, and the Mets would ideally like him back, but they are reportedly unwilling to offer the seven-year contract that Alonso is demanding, especially given his age (turning 31 in December) and below-average defense. This reticence opens the door for Boston to step in with the long-term deal the “Polar Bear” is seeking.
