Mets Lose Polar Bear: Alonso Inks Historic $155M Deal with Orioles
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The Baltimore Orioles have made a massive splash in free agency, signing New York Mets' star Pete Alonso to a $155 million, five-year contract. Alonso, affectionately known as the Polar Bear, agreed to the deal pending a physical, according to The Associated Press. The 31-year-old slugger leaves the Mets after seven seasons, where he hit 264 home runs, earned five All-Star selections, and became a beloved figure at Citi Field. Alonso's impressive resume includes a record-setting rookie year in 2019, where he hit .260 with 53 home runs and 120 RBIs. The Orioles, who finished last in the AL East last season, have been active in the offseason, signing reliever Ryan Helsley and trading for outfielder Taylor Ward. Alonso's arrival addresses their need for a power hitter, following a season where their offense sagged despite the presence of stars like Gunnar Henderson and Adley Rutschman. Alonso's decision to leave the Mets marks another significant loss for the team, which has also seen star closer Edwin Díaz join the Los Angeles Dodgers and outfielder Brandon Nimmo traded to the Texas Rangers. Alonso's agent, Scott Boras, credits the improved market conditions for the slugger's new deal, saying the 'prior bear market is exhausted.'
