The Mets aren’t closing the door on Pete Alonso just yet. Even after negotiations for a short-term deal fell through last week, there’s still a chance the slugging first baseman returns to Queens.
It’s been a busy winter for New York. They’ve already landed Juan Soto, brought back Jesse Winker and Sean Manaea, and bolstered their pitching staff. But there’s still that Alonso-sized hole at first base.
Thomas Harrigan of MLB.com thinks a reunion makes sense. “The club’s lineup is arguably still a big bat short,” he writes, pointing to the spot Alonso’s held since his 2019 debut.
Let’s put it this way: Pete Alonso might’ve hit just .240 last year, but he still crushed 34 homers. That’s the kind of power that’s hard to replace. He’s been a cornerstone for the Mets – we’re talking about a Rookie of the Year winner and four-time All-Star.
The way I see it, bringing Alonso back would give the Mets’ lineup the punch it needs to compete in a loaded NL East. Remember, this is the same guy who kept their season alive with that clutch homer against Milwaukee in the Wild Card race.
The Mets have options, sure. But finding someone to replace Alonso’s production – and his connection with the fanbase – won’t be easy. They’ve got to be thinking hard about making another offer.
For now, both sides seem to be weighing thier options. The question isn’t just whether Alonso returns – it’s what it might take to make that happen.
