Angels Consider Bold Move for Pete Alonso
The Los Angeles Angels are exploring an intriguing option this offseason. With Pete Alonso, ranked 11th among offseason prospects, catching their eye, the Angels are contemplating bringing the seasoned first baseman into their fold. This potential move comes as the team evaluates its current lineup, particularly the future of their promising young first baseman, Nolan Schanuel, who was a first-round pick back in 2023.
It's clear that the Halos are in a bit of a dilemma. According to internal discussions, “The Halos have a good young first baseman in Nolan Schanuel, their 2023 first-round pick.” However, thinking creatively is the name of the game, and the team might consider shifting Schanuel to the outfield or even trading him to bolster other positions.
Shifting Market Dynamics for First Basemen
Interestingly, the market hasn't been too kind to experienced, right-handed first basemen in their 30s lately. It's a challenging environment, which could make Alonso more affordable for the Angels. This potential acquisition aligns with a trend where experienced players face stiff competition and diminishing returns during free agency. The Angels' decision could prove to be a strategic move, exploring options that traditional approaches might overlook.
Bregman’s Free Agency Sparks Interest
Meanwhile, the free agent scene is ablaze with speculation surrounding veteran third baseman Alex Bregman. Industry insiders note, “Veteran third baseman Alex Bregman, an Astros lifer who seems almost certain to sign elsewhere, is the top free agent left on the market.” Bregman, who turns 31 in March, is seeing heightened interest from teams like the Detroit Tigers and the Toronto Blue Jays.
The Tigers, fresh off a surprise playoff run in 2024, and the Blue Jays, who are eager to bounce back from a lackluster season, are considered frontrunners in securing Bregman. Jon Heyman offered insights during a live stream, suggesting these teams are "most likely" to secure Bregman’s signature.
White Sox Secure Josh Rojas
In other offseason developments, the Chicago White Sox managed to strike a deal with versatile infielder Josh Rojas. Previously with the Mariners, Rojas has shown his flexibility by playing various positions including second, third base, and the outfield corners. Despite a .225 batting average last season, he managed to showcase his versatility over 142 games, contributing eight homers and swiping ten bases.
After six major league seasons, Rojas has an OPS+ of 92, underscoring his potential value to the White Sox as a utility player. Rojas symbolizes the kind of strategic depth teams might look for, complementing their roster with players who can step in at multiple positions as needed.
As teams maneuver through the offseason, these signings and potential acquisitions highlight the dynamic nature of baseball's evolving landscape, where strategic foresight and adaptability are keys to building a competitive team.