The New York Mets are facing a narrowing field of options at first base as the MLB offseason progresses. In a market that’s quickly seeing available talent snatched up, two potential candidates for the Mets have recently made decisions, further highlighting the urgency for the team to solidify their roster.
Just days after Christian Walker agreed to a three-year, $60 million contract with the Houston Astros, another first base possibility, Paul Goldschmidt, decided on his next destination. However, in a move that might sting Mets fans a little more, Goldschmidt inked a one-year, $12.5 million deal with their cross-town rivals, the New York Yankees.
While both Walker and Goldschmidt were likely viewed as short-term solutions for the Mets, their decisions underscore a critical point: time is of the essence. The Mets had reportedly engaged in discussions with Goldschmidt, indicating their active search for first base help. Yet, with these options now off the table, the focus naturally shifts to a player who could be more than just a stopgap: Pete Alonso.
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Image alt text: Pete Alonso, Mets first baseman, in his batting stance during a game at Citi Field.
Alonso, the Mets’ own franchise cornerstone at first base, remains a free agent. And as the available alternatives dwindle, the prospect of him returning to Queens becomes increasingly probable, and arguably, the most sensible move for the team. Despite what has been described as a slow free agency market for Alonso, both the player and the Mets organization have publicly expressed mutual interest in continuing their partnership.
Adding further intrigue to the Mets’ offseason is their blockbuster acquisition of superstar outfielder Juan Soto. Soto’s arrival, via a record-setting trade, signaled a clear intention from the Mets to compete at the highest level. However, to truly maximize Soto’s impact and solidify their lineup, the Mets need another impactful bat in the middle of their order. Re-signing Alonso perfectly fills that void.
Interestingly, both Alonso and Soto share the same agent, the influential Scott Boras. This pre-existing relationship could potentially streamline negotiations and facilitate a deal between Alonso and the Mets.
Reports suggest that some teams have been hesitant to commit to a long-term contract for a 30-year-old, power-hitting first baseman like Alonso. However, Alonso’s value to the Mets transcends mere statistics. He is a homegrown star, beloved by the fanbase, and is rapidly approaching Darryl Strawberry’s franchise home run record, needing just 26 more to tie.
Since his debut in 2019, Alonso has established himself as one of baseball’s premier power hitters, ranking second in home runs (226) during that span. His consistent All-Star caliber performance, with four selections in his five full seasons with the Mets, further solidifies his importance to the team.
Image alt text: Pete Alonso and Juan Soto, star players for the New York Mets, pictured together in their team uniforms.
Securing Soto was a major coup for the Mets, generating significant excitement and boosting their aspirations for contention. Re-signing Alonso would amplify that buzz, sending a clear message that the Mets are serious about competing for a World Series title and solidifying their status as contenders.
It’s worth noting that Alonso previously declined a seven-year, $158 million extension offer from the Mets during the 2023 season. However, that offer was made under different circumstances, with different representation for Alonso and a different General Manager at the helm for the Mets.
With Walker and Goldschmidt now committed elsewhere, the Mets’ remaining options at first base are limited and less appealing. While they could consider shifting third baseman Alex Bregman to first and utilizing Mark Vientos at third, or pursue veteran options like Carlos Santana, these are arguably less impactful solutions. Exploring the trade market for players like Yandy Diaz, Nathaniel Lowe, or Josh Naylor also presents challenges and uncertainties.
Another potential avenue, albeit a longer-term one, would be to sign a one-year placeholder and then pursue star first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. in free agency the following year. However, Guerrero Jr. will command significant attention and competition in the open market.
Ultimately, the most logical and impactful move for the New York Mets remains re-signing Pete Alonso. He is the ideal fit for their current needs, their long-term aspirations, and their fanbase. For the Mets, retaining Alonso isn’t just about filling a position; it’s about reinforcing their commitment to winning and solidifying their identity as a true contender in 2025 and beyond.
