The Baltimore Orioles are looking for a big-time bat in free agency, but came up just short of signing Kyle Schwarber. On Tuesday, the Philadelphia Phillies signed Schwarber to a five-year, $150 million contract. The Orioles made a strong push for Schwarber, but now shift their focus elsewhere.
Baltimore is pivoting to free-agent first baseman Pete Alonso, as reported by the Baltimore Banner’s Andy Kostka. The Orioles are expected to have a lot of competition for Alonso’s services, but the organization remains committed to signing a top batter and pitcher from free agency.
In 2025, Alonso hit 38 home runs and drove in 126 runs over 162 games. It marked the fourth straight season that Alonso played in 150-plus games. The market for the free agent first baseman wasn’t strong last offseason, but with several teams looking for power, he should earn a major contract this winter.
The Orioles don’t necessarily need another position player, but Alonso represents a significant upgrade at first base. In fact, he would become the best hitter in the entire starting lineup. Baltimore is hoping it doesn’t miss out on Alonso as it did with Schwarber during the MLB Winter Meetings.
