ESPN's Jeff Passan labels Orioles' revamped lineup a 'wrecking crew' after signing Pete Alonso

Hunter Cookston

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ESPN's Jeff Passan labels Orioles' revamped lineup a 'wrecking crew' after signing Pete Alonso image

The MLB Winter Meetings are finally underway, and the action has been nothing short of explosive. On Tuesday, the New York Mets lost reliever Edwin Díaz to the Los Angeles Dodgers. On Wednesday, they were hit with a double whammy as Pete Alonso signed a deal with the Baltimore Orioles.

“First baseman Pete Alonso and the Baltimore Orioles are finalizing a five-year, $155 million contract, sources told ESPN's Jeff Passan. Alonso, after failing to get the long-term deal that he coveted, made $30 million with the New York Mets in 2025 and was worth every penny as he rebounded to slash.272/.347/.524 with 38 home runs and 126 RBIs, batting behind Juan Soto for the first time. However, the Mets did not make Alonso an offer, sources confirmed to ESPN,” ESPN wrote.

This outcome wasn’t surprising, as MLB insider Jon Morosi had already indicated that the chances of Alonso returning to New York were slim.

“There is a better than 50/50 chance Pete Alonso is NOT a New York Met on Opening Day,” Morosi said from the Winter Meetings.

Shortly after the signing became official, ESPN insider Jeff Passan made it clear he believes the Orioles could have the best lineup in baseball next season.

“The Baltimore Orioles lineup might have the best lineup in baseball. Whatever order Craig Albernaz chooses, he’s got Gunnar Henderson, Pete Alonso, Jordan Westburg, Taylor Ward, Adley Rutschman, Jackson Holliday, Sam Basallo, Dylan Beavers and Colton Cowser. A wrecking crew,” Passan posted.

The Orioles are coming off a disappointing season in which they failed to meet expectations. But 2026 is shaping up to be a year where they can make a serious run if they continue adding the right pieces.

Landing Alonso is certainly one of those moves. With a deep and dangerous lineup already in place, the Orioles now need pitching that can keep them competitive in every game. Alonso provides a powerful bat that can slide perfectly into the cleanup spot.

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