Part 10/12:
The case of Pete Alonzo exemplifies a broader trend in baseball: the importance of timing and perceived value in free agency. Teams that hesitate or undervalue a player may see that player leave for greener pastures, especially when the market becomes open.
Alonzo's situation underscores the importance of understanding a player's worth and the strategic need to act decisively. The Orioles’ early engagement and willingness to pay a premium reflect a proactive approach, one that could pay dividends — provided their depth and health hold up through the season.