Mets expected to retain power-hitting infielder on favorable contract

Oct 18, 2024; New York City, New York, USA; New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso (20) reacts after being hit by a pitch during the fourth inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers during game five of the NLCS for the 2024 MLB playoffs at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

The New York Mets and Pete Alonso appear destined for a reunion in 2025.

Mets on the verge of locking down Pete Alonso to deal

According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, Alonso is nearly a sure bet to return to the Mets on a lucrative short-term deal (h/t SNY). The deal is anticipated to have several opt-outs, which will give Alonso flexibility at the negotiating table and an avenue to seek greener pastures at his will over the duration of the agreement. That caveat also serves as an appeasement for what the Florida native is seeking and likely won’t receive regarding his desired contract length.

Oct 20, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso (20) fields the ball hit by Los Angeles Dodgers second baseman Chris Taylor (not pictured) in the sixth inning during game six of the NLCS for the 2024 MLB playoffs at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Alonso likely won’t get a long-term $200 million contract

Recent reports revealed that Alonso and his agent Scott Boras have been seeking a long-term deal at $200 million. Meanwhile, New York’s offer was reported to be $90 million over three years. Both parties have been in a negotiating war of sorts for multiple seasons.

The shrinking market for first basemen does not help the four-time All-Star’s case to force the Mets to capitulate to his demands. While Alonso, 30, is in the thick of his prime, having been an All-Star in 2024 behind 91 runs, 34 home runs, and 88 RBIs, he’ll earn roughly $10 million more on an annual basis than the $20.5 million he took home on his one-year deal with the Mets in 2024, which would be a massive pay raise.

Alonso will be richer with Mets as market shrinks

Long-term security would be ideal for a player of his age and stature. Nevertheless, New York greatly needs his services at first base to remain as legitimate World Series contenders. The rest of the MLB landscape does not appear to have a pressing need for a first baseman, save a couple of teams a la the Boston Red Sox. SNY also reported that the Los Angeles Angels and San Francisco Giants have shown interest in Alonso. Nevertheless, if none of them make him an offer that’s music to his ears and soon, he’ll most likely return to New York.

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