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New York Yankees at Boston Red Sox (Image via Imagn)
The 2025 MLB offseason is shaping up to be one of the most dramatic in recent memory, with major stars opting out of contracts and franchises preparing for sweeping roster adjustments.
At the center of this activity is the Boston Red Sox, who are now expected to pursue New York Mets slugger Pete Alonso as a potential replacement for departing third baseman Alex Bregman. This scenario has triggered widespread debate, touching on payroll strategy, positional needs, and the ever-shifting dynamics of free agency.Both Alonso and Bregman enter the market with strong statistical resumes and significant contract expectations.
Their decisions not only influence their respective teams but also ripple across the league as clubs map out long-term roster building. With Boston searching for an elite power bat and the Mets looking to reshape their financial structure, this rumored alignment carries major implications.
How This Trade Scenario Takes Shape
Alex Bregman officially opted out of his Red Sox deal, turning down $80 million in pursuit of a projected five- or six-year contract worth around $150 million.
Despite an injury-shortened 2025 season, he produced a steady .273/.360/.462 slash line, 18 home runs, and 3.5 WAR - strong enough to make him one of the most attractive infield options on the market.With third base now open, Boston has shifted attention toward Pete Alonso, who also opted out following a powerful 2025 season. Alonso recorded 38 home runs, 126 RBIs, and a .256/.350/.480 line with 5.0 WAR. His expected price tag is even steeper, with projections exceeding $170 million over six years.
Alonso would primarily handle first base or a DH role, allowing the Red Sox to elevate infield prospects like Marcelo Mayer to cover third base defensively.
Benefits for All Parties
Boston Red Sox
Gain a premier power hitter, maintain payroll flexibility by promoting internal defensive talent, and strengthen their lineup without sacrificing long-term infield development.
Pete Alonso
Finds a clearly defined role on a contender while securing a long-term deal in a competitive environment.
Alex Bregman
Leverages his strong 2025 performance to maximize free-agency earnings and choose a team better aligned with his future goals.
New York Mets
Free up payroll, restructure their roster, and potentially pursue more suitable offensive or defensive upgrades.
Pros and Cons for the Red Sox
| Pros | Cons |
| Significant power boost with Alonso’s bat | Defensive downgrade at third base |
| Financial flexibility by reallocating payroll | Risk of Alonso’s fit in Fenway Park lineup |
| Provides DH option optimizing his skill set | Loss of veteran presence and leadership |
| Opportunity to develop young third-base talent | Alonso’s contract demands are extremely high |
Statistical Breakdown and Demographics
| Statistic | Pete Alonso | Alex Bregman |
| Age | 30 | 31 |
| 2025 Home Runs | 38 | 18 |
| 2025 RBIs | 126 | 65 |
| 2025 Batting Average | .256 | .273 |
| 2025 On-base Percentage | .350 | .360 |
| 2025 Slugging Percentage | .480 | .462 |
| WAR 2025 (fWAR) | 5.0 | 3.5 |
| Contract Status | Free Agent, Opted out | Opted out |
| Estimated Contract Value | $170M+ for 6 years | $150M+ for 5–6 years |
Also read: MLB trade rumors: Detroit Tigers could land $150 million Boston Red Sox superstar to bolster their championship ambitions in 2026If Boston successfully offsets the defensive gap left by Bregman, they emerge as the biggest winner - adding an elite slugger while promoting their young infield core. Alonso secures long-term stability, Bregman maximizes his free-agent value, and the Mets gain flexibility to restructure for 2026 and beyond.
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