Part 5/9:
The Role of Defense and Positional Transition
An important consideration is Alonso's defensive liabilities at first base. The team has plans to improve defensively and may seek a transition to DH in the future. This potential shift impacts contract negotiations because it influences how long Alonso is perceived as a first baseman, which traditionally commands a premium salary.
Therefore, negotiations might include contingencies related to Alonso's ability to stay at DH, perhaps limiting the total length to six years and incorporating performance clauses related to defensive adequacy. Such adjustments would serve both the player's interests and the team's strategic plans.