What’s Next for Pete Alonso? Mets Weigh Their Options
DALLAS — The baseball world is still reeling from Juan Soto‘s jaw-dropping, record-breaking contract with the New York Mets. But while fans and analysts alike dissect the implications of Soto’s megadeal, Mets President of Baseball Operations David Stearns had something else on his mind during a media session at the Hilton Anatole on Monday. Though he declined to comment on Soto’s deal since it’s not yet official, Stearns didn’t shy away from addressing another major storyline: the future of free-agent first baseman Pete Alonso.
“We’d love to bring Pete back,” Stearns said. “Pete’s been a great Met. He had some enormous hits for us, and we’ll see where that goes.”
Alonso, a homegrown star and fan favorite, has been a cornerstone of the Mets since his debut in 2019. Drafted in the second round in 2016, Alonso has blossomed into a four-time All-Star with 216 home runs to his name—second most in Major League Baseball over that span. He’s also been a model of durability, never missing more than 10 games in a season. Mets fans will never forget his clutch home run in the National League Wild Card game, a moment that kept the team’s postseason hopes alive and propelled them to an unexpected run to the National League Championship Series.
But here’s the catch: Alonso is now 30 years old, and while his bat remains a threat, his defensive skills and speed aren’t exactly elite. To complicate matters, his offensive production has dipped over the past three seasons. It’s a tricky situation for the Mets, who must weigh Alonso’s undeniable contributions against the realities of his age and performance trends.
What Are the Mets’ Options?
Stearns emphasized that the Mets have the resources to make big moves when necessary. “I think our ownership has consistently demonstrated that there’s going to be resources when we need them,” he said. “There is the ability for us to make baseball moves when we think they’re there to improve the team, and we’re going to continue to pursue a wide variety of areas to continue to improve our team.”
One potential fallback plan, should Alonso not return, involves moving Mark Vientos to first base. Vientos had a breakout season in 2024, but Stearns made it clear that he still views Vientos as a third baseman for now.
Offseason Moves So Far
The Mets have already been active this offseason, making several notable moves:
- Lost right-hander Luis Severino to the Oakland A’s in free agency.
- Acquired outfielder Jose Siri.
- Signed right-handers Frankie Montas and Clay Holmes to bolster the starting rotation.
Despite these additions, Stearns hinted that the Mets might not be done yet. “There’s room to add another starting pitcher,” he said, though he doesn’t see it as a pressing need. The team still has left-handers Sean Manaea and Jose Quintana as free agents, and the market is flush with veteran starters like Corbin Burnes, Max Fried, Jack Flaherty, and Walker Buehler.
And let’s not forget about Japanese phenom Roki Sasaki, who was officially posted to MLB teams on Monday. Sasaki, known for his blazing fastball, will be available to sign as a free agent starting Tuesday. Could he be on the Mets’ radar?
Looking Ahead
As it stands, the Mets’ rotation options include Montas, Holmes, David Peterson, Tylor Megill, Paul Blackburn, and Jose Butto, who pitched out of the bullpen in 2024. But the big question remains: Will Pete Alonso be part of the Mets’ future?
For now, Mets fans will have to wait and see. One thing is certain: Alonso’s next move will be one of the most closely watched storylines of the offseason.
Originally Written by: Alden Gonzalez
