A new revelation about Pete Alonso’s free agent pursuit may give the New York Mets renewed hope of keeping their homegrown star in MLB.
The Mets have had a tremendously productive past few weeks. To start the month, the team signed veteran innings eater Frankie Montas and former Yankees closer Clay Holmes, who both bring fascinating depth to the rotation.
Then they made the most significant move this offseason, enticing superstar outfielder Juan Soto away from the Bronx and to Queens on a mammoth $765 million contract. They will now try to solidify other aspects of the squad, with an emphasis on who will play first base in 2025 and beyond.
New York would love to have four-time All-Star Pete Alonso. He is a beloved part of the team. However, past contract talks stalled due to concerns over signing the 30-year-old to a long-term contract. Because numerous facts indicate that is a high-risk decision for a first baseman aged 30 or older.
It is becoming increasingly likely that he will be able to take his talents somewhere in free agency. However, a recent report on his current free agency market appears to increase the likelihood of a return to Flushing.
Pete Alonso stats (2024):.240 AVG,.329 OBP,.459 SLG,.788 OBP, 34 HR, 88 RBI, and 91 runs
The New York Mets are hardly the only team hesitant to give Pete Alonso a long-term deal.
“[Alonso’s] profile intimidates teams. A 30-year-old first baseman who hits and throws with his right hand. Teams are hesitant to sign him to a long-term contract,” ESPN MLB source Jeff Passan wrote on Thursday. “At the same time, they see significant value in bringing him on for the next few years. “The Mets could still bring him back.”
Alonso supposedly declined a seven-year, $158 million contract from the New York Mets in 2023. With David Stearns leading the team, they are unlikely to make a comparable offer. However, with the team within striking reach of a World Series championship, they may make a different offer.
Pete Alonso contract (projected): seven years and $220 million
Instead, the Mets might try a shorter-term agreement with a higher annual average to see if the first baseman will return. If no team is ready to give him a lengthier contract, New York will undoubtedly have the advantage in a war of short-term offers.
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