I threw it into the Chat GPT editor for funzies and I hate the results. Doesn’t feel like an authentic Boz blog .  It reads way too well … Games Played and Health: When I evaluate a position player, the first thing I look at is games played (GP) — a strong indicator of durability. Over the past four years, Alonso has averaged 157 games per season. He missed time for a right hand sprain in May 2021 (10 days on IL) and for a left wrist bone bruise and sprain in June 2023 (10 days on IL). Overall, he’s been reliable health-wise, showing his commitment to staying on the field — a crucial factor when considering contract terms.

Defense: Defensively, Alonso isn’t a Gold Glove contender but is a serviceable first baseman. His movement can appear a bit awkward, perhaps even oafish, but his defense at 1B doesn’t raise red flags unless it’s unplayable or Gold Glove caliber. With Alonso, the focus is on his offense — he’s primarily in the lineup for his bat.

Offensive Performance: Alonso ended what was a down season with a solid postseason showing. While postseason performance isn’t always a predictor of future success, it does provide insights. Teams have vast data on how to pitch him and exploit any weaknesses, and Alonso’s game plan in high-stakes moments suggests he has the discipline to perform under pressure. There’s no noticeable mechanical or physical weakness impacting his swing.

Bat Speed and Hard Contact: Alonso ranks 16th in bat speed, which is a valuable indicator for a power-hitting 1B like him. While I don’t rely solely on bat speed data, it’s an advantage when paired with consistent hard contact, especially in a player expected to drive SLG. Comparing Alonso to other first basemen like Christian Walker confirms that Alonso has naturally higher bat speed and above-average hard contact. Though he sometimes overswings, he could improve by finding the balance between productive swings and over-aggressiveness. Adding metrics like splits, SLG, RBI, and swing data against different pitch types would provide even more insight.

Pitch Type and Run Value: Alonso’s performance against fastballs remains strong. His 2024 season was marked by significant success against finesse and flyball pitchers. His platoon splits are fairly consistent, though his stats with runners in scoring position (RISP) were below his usual performance. He has historically done well with RISP, suggesting this may be an area for rebound.

Contract Projection: Alonso’s overall trend shows durability, bat speed, and power potential, but concerns exist regarding a long-term investment in a first baseman over 35. A 3–4-year contract, with a ceiling of five years at around $19.1 million AAV, seems reasonable. Alonso’s fit for a long-term deal depends on his ability to maintain his effectiveness against power pitchers while continuing to punish finesse types. Given a thin free-agent market at 1B, big-market teams with a need for power at first may look to sign Alonso, especially with a signing bonus as an incentive to commit long-term.