Was Alonso’s signing the best one in Orioles’ history? | MAILBAG

In an Orioles mailbag, writer Rich Dubroff evaluated Pete Alonso's first season in Baltimore, addressing whether his signing ranks among the best in franchise history. Dubroff compared Alonso's successful initial campaign under his five-year, $155 million contract to Nelson Cruz's 2014 one-year stint with the team, noting that sustained performance over the remaining four years would solidify the deal's top status.

Dubroff also addressed Alonso's American League MVP chances, predicting down-ballot votes rather than a win over top candidates Yordan Alvarez and Bobby Witt. Additionally, he discussed late-season pitching decisions regarding early hooks for Trevor Rogers and Brandon Young, suggesting roster management and rewarding Albert Suárez as possible explanations.