The Mets aren’t giving up on Pete Alonso just yet. Despite earlier reports suggesting they’d moved on, there’s still a chance the slugging first baseman stays in Queens on a shorter deal as spring training approaches.
What’s interesting here is both sides seem open to a three-year contract with opt-outs, according to ESPN’s Jorge Castillo. It’s the kind of creative solution that could work for everyone involved.
Let’s put Alonso’s value in perspective. Since breaking into the league in 2019, he’s been the National League’s most prolific home run hitter. Only Aaron Judge has gone deep more times in all of baseball during that span. That’s elite company.
“Yes, Alonso is a first baseman on the wrong side of 30 with defensive limitations and little value on the basepaths,” Castillo writes. “But Alonso is one of the most prolific home run hitters in baseball since debuting in 2019. He has proved he can thrive in New York City.”
The four-time All-Star’s potential return gets even more intriguing when you consider the Mets’ recent addition of Juan Soto. Having Alonso hit behind Soto could be a nightmare for opposing pitchers – more fastballs for Pete to feast on, as Castillo points out.
The Mets do have a backup plan if things fall through. Mark Vientos could take over at first base, with Luisangel Acuña possibly sliding to third. But theres no replacing Alonso’s proven power bat and his ability to handle the New York spotlight.
All things considered, a reunion seems to make sense for both sides. The Mets have the money, need the right-handed power, and already know Alonso can deliver in Queens. Now it’s just a matter of finding the right numbers that work for everyone.
