Alonso Looks Like Mets Days Are Over
Photo: Special to the NY Beacon
By Matthew Kennedy
Pete Alonso stands out as the most prominent MLB free agent still available this late in the offseason. As free agency winds down, the list of potential destinations for the New York Mets’ star slugger continues to shrink. The power-hitting first baseman is a perennial All-Star and has topped 40 home runs three times in his career. There’s no doubt he’s proven himself to be not just one of the best sluggers but one of the best hitters in the league during the first half of his career. Adding to his value, Alonso’s entertainment factor makes his next contract likely to be one of the biggest in Mets’ history if he signs with his current team.
Throughout the offseason, plenty of teams have had their eyes on “Polar Pete,” whose world-class power, clutch ability, and likable nature would make him an asset to any ballclub. At one point, the New York Yankees, Seattle Mariners, Houston Astros, and San Francisco Giants were all rumored destinations for the four-time All-Star. But now, only two or three teams appear to remain as realistic landing spots for Alonso, who is coming off a personal down year—despite his team reaching the NLCS for the first time in nine seasons.
The Toronto Blue Jays are reportedly still in the mix, even after signing fellow slugger Anthony Santander. Santander was prioritized because his switch-hitting ability balances Toronto’s right-handed-heavy lineup. However, after missing out on several other star players, the Jays might still make a push for Alonso if they decide to fully commit to a “win now” mentality.
Still, the most likely outcome is Alonso staying put in Queens. The Mets shocked the world by reaching the NLCS despite carrying a losing record deep into the regular season, and Alonso played a huge role in that magical run.
Even though 2024 was the least impressive full season of his young career, Alonso has incredible chemistry with his teammates and is beloved by his peers and coaches. Most likely, the 30-year-old will sign a short-term deal with the Mets, playing out the tail end of his prime years with a ballclub that has just developed a winning culture and tasted playoff success.
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