Pete Alonso Not on Yankees’ Radar Despite Free Agent Buzz
Pete Alonso, one of the most prominent free agents on the market, is reportedly not being pursued by the New York Yankees, according to analyst Rich Eisen. Despite Alonso’s power at the plate, the Yankees appear focused on other priorities this offseason and are unlikely to offer the long-term deal Alonso is expected to seek.
Alonso had a somewhat underwhelming 2023 campaign with the New York Mets, batting .240 with 34 home runs. While those numbers are solid, they fall short of his usual elite production, potentially impacting his market value. Still, Alonso remains a hot commodity, with teams in need of a power-hitting first baseman expected to show interest.
However, the Yankees are taking a different approach. On The Rich Eisen Show, the host stated that Alonso is not part of the Yankees’ plans.
“The Yankees, I can tell you this right now, he is not on their radar screen,” Eisen said (4:36 onwards). “They’re not going to sign somebody for multiple long-term years to stick at first base. That’s what I heard.”
This offseason, the Yankees have already made several splashy moves. They acquired ace pitcher Max Fried and bolstered their bullpen with Devin Williams. The trade for Cody Bellinger, who can play both outfield and first base, further solidifies their commitment to versatile players. With the added presence of Jazz Chisholm, another versatile talent, first base no longer appears to be a pressing need for the Yankees.
Bellinger’s acquisition, which cost the Yankees a pitcher who started just four games last season, highlights their strategy of maximizing flexibility. “That’s why the Yankees got him,” Eisen noted, adding that the Cubs even included cash in the deal.
Alonso, meanwhile, could still attract a team willing to invest in a long-term solution at first base. But as Eisen made clear, the Yankees won’t be that team.
