With Pete Alonso and the New York Mets locked in a stalemate over a new contract, speculation has arisen about how the team might replace their star first baseman should he leave in free agency. Despite a productive offseason that included addressing their starting rotation needs and signing Yankees superstar Juan Soto to a record-breaking deal, Alonso’s future remains a pressing issue for the Mets’ front office.
The Mets’ president, David Stearns, appears hesitant to commit to a long-term deal for Alonso, a 30-year-old right-handed slugger, citing concerns based on available data. Reports initially suggested that Alonso, a four-time All-Star, might leave in free agency this winter, but a weaker-than-expected market for his services has given the Mets a better shot at retaining him. However, negotiations have stalled, with Alonso’s agent, Scott Boras, holding out for a contract exceeding three years.
In the event the Mets fail to re-sign Alonso, they may need to explore alternatives to fill his void in the lineup. According to The Athletic’s Mets insider Will Sammon, the team has several potential options, including pursuing external candidates or relying on internal solutions.
Sammon suggested that the Mets could trade for another first baseman, acquire a third baseman, and shift Mark Vientos to first base. Alternatively, they might consider internal infield prospects like Brett Baty and Ronny Mauricio. While Baty has shown promise, his stints in the majors have yet to yield consistent results. Mauricio, on the other hand, was one of the organization’s top prospects and displayed potential during a late-season call-up in 2023. Unfortunately, an ACL tear in winter ball sidelined him for the entire 2024 season, but he remains a viable option for the future.
Additionally, top prospects like Jett Williams and Ryan Clifford could emerge as part of a reimagined Mets infield. These young players represent potential long-term solutions if the team decides to invest in its farm system rather than pursue costly free-agent signings.
The Mets have also been linked to notable stars such as Alex Bregman and Toronto Blue Jays slugger Vladimir Guerrero Jr. However, both players would likely require long-term, expensive contracts, potentially exceeding Alonso’s current asking price.
Alonso’s 2024 performance, which included 34 home runs, 88 RBIs, and a .788 OPS, underscores his value to the Mets’ lineup. Should the team fail to retain him, replacing his production will be a significant challenge. For now, Mets fans must wait to see whether their team doubles down on Alonso or pivots toward a new strategy to reshape their infield.
