Pete Alonso’s 2026 Silver Slugger nomination is proof of who Orioles nucleus truly is

Writer Stephen Parello argues that Pete Alonso's 2026 Silver Slugger nomination cements the first baseman as the central nucleus of the Baltimore Orioles. After signing a five-year, $155 million contract, Alonso produced an impressive debut campaign in Baltimore, leading the American League with 43 home runs and 113 RBIs across 161 games.

Parello notes that while former top young players have struggled to meet superstar expectations, Alonso has established himself as the team's indispensable leader. Facing Boston Red Sox first baseman Willson Contreras for the award, Alonso has reportedly become Baltimore's lone untouchable trade asset heading into the 2027 offseason.