MLB Trade Rumors: Yonder Alonso wants to stay with A’s
By John McCarty
Oakland A’s first baseman Yonder Alonso is hoping for contract extension with the team, perhaps before the conclusion of the 2017 season.
It’s perhaps a rarity that a player approaching free agency is willing to sign a midseason extension, especially a player enjoying a breakout season. However, for A’s first baseman Yonder Alonso, an extension is something he’s open to. Alonso is hoping to be along for the ride as the new core of young talent emerges.
What’s spurring the desire on Alonso’s part to stay in Oakland? In a recent piece by FOX baseball insider Ken Rosenthal, Alonso indicates that emerging group of young players is a big reason. Alonso cites recently called-up infielder Matt Champan as well as rising prospects such as Franklin Barreto and AJ Puk.
Next: Alonso open to contract extension
"“I think that there is a great chance that I stay here,” Alonso tells Rosenthal. “I really do mean that. The guys they have, the young core that they have, are all guys I can relate to. … A lot of players here say, ‘I want to play well here, do well and get out.’ I actually want to play well, do well and stay here.”"
Alonso, 30, is enjoying his breakout season at just the right time. For most of his career, Alonso was known as a quality first baseman in the field who could hit for a good average, but very little pop. This year, the veteran is changing all of that. Going into Friday night, Alonso is hitting .306 with 17 home runs, pacing the A’s in both categories.
Recent history indicates Alonso could be traded without an extension. Just last year, the A’s traded outfielder Josh Reddick and pitcher Rich Hill to the Dodgers near the deadline for multiple young pitchers, led by Jharel Cotton and Grant Holmes. While it’s possible Alonso could be moved at the deadline, he’s certainly interested in at least exploring the possibility of an extension with Oakland.