Chicago Cubs Rumors: Scott Boras addresses Pete Alonso speculation
Scott Boras now represents Chicago Cubs trade target Pete Alonso and spoke on the future of the first baseman with free agency one season away.
The Chicago Cubs are expected to pursue New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso in a trade this off-season but it remains to be seen how available Alonso will be this off-season.
Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns gave a uniform response during his introductory press conference with the team when asked about Alonso's future with the team but first baseman's new agent, Scott Boras, was more direct.
While speaking with John Heyman of The New York Post, Boras made it clear what his expectations are regarding Alonso's next contract.
“We all work in different markets, and I got Mark Teixeira a contract, where he became a world champion with the Yankees, for $180 million in 2007,’’ Boras said on “The Show” podcast with Joel Sherman and Jon Heyman.
“And I also understand I got Prince Fielder a contract at [$214] million in 2011,’’ Boras said. “There are different markets, different representation [and] different dynamics you look at.”
Boras also noted the increase in revenue throughout the game, which he is confident can put Alonso in a higher bracket.
The indication with that statement is that Alonso may be seeking $250MM. That would be a steep asking price considering the market for premium first basemen has settled in between $130MM and $160MM.
We can even point out another Boras client for how unreasonable the expectations are for Bellinger. Projections for Cubs' free agent center fielder/first baseman Cody Bellinger have been around $144MM for 6 years.
One thing is clear, Boras' comments would seem to rule out the possibility that Alonso will sign an extension with any team that trades for him this off-season. If that is the case, the Cubs may turn to a free-agent option such as Rhys Hoskins for their power need rather than trading prospect capital for one season of Alonso.