The first base market has been a captivating storyline this offseason, with top-tier players Pete Alonso and Christian Walker headlining the list of available talent. The Houston Astros made an early splash by securing Walker on a three-year deal, leaving Alonso as the lone marquee name still unsigned. Meanwhile, other teams have made significant moves to address their first base needs. The New York Yankees added veteran slugger Paul Goldschmidt via free agency, while the Cleveland Guardians traded Josh Naylor to the Arizona Diamondbacks and subsequently signed Carlos Santana to fill the void. Additionally, the Washington Nationals, once seen as a potential destination for Alonso, opted to trade for Texas Rangers first baseman Nathaniel Lowe instead.
This flurry of activity raises an important question: Where does that leave Pete Alonso? Quinn Everts of FanSided recently predicted that Alonso would re-sign with the New York Mets, a scenario that seems increasingly likely given the current state of the market. “It’s not the most exciting possibility for general MLB fans, but it’s the option that makes the most sense,” Everts noted. “As most teams with a need at first base have filled that need in recent weeks, Alonso’s market has dwindled to… well, the Mets basically.”
Everts identified the Seattle Mariners as a potential landing spot for Alonso but also expressed skepticism about their ability to compete financially with Mets owner Steve Cohen. “Even if Alonso’s price tag has dropped as teams fill the position, it’s hard to envision the Mariners outbidding the Mets,” Everts explained. Given this, a return to New York for Alonso appears to be the most logical outcome.
The real intrigue now lies in the contract negotiations between Alonso and the Mets. The Mets have already shown financial creativity this offseason by signing pitcher Sean Manaea to a deal that includes deferred money, suggesting they have room in their budget to accommodate a significant contract for Alonso. However, the exact terms of such a deal remain to be seen and will undoubtedly attract widespread attention.
For the Mets, retaining Alonso would ensure they keep one of the league’s premier power hitters at the heart of their lineup. Meanwhile, Alonso’s continued presence in Queens would maintain his status as a fan favorite and cornerstone of the team’s offense. While the offseason has seen its share of surprises, all signs now point to Alonso reuniting with the Mets—a move that seems both inevitable and essential for both parties as the first base market narrows.
