The New York Mets signed Juan Soto to a historic 15-year, $765 million deal this offseason. They are trying to come to terms on a deal with Pete Alonso but perhaps are not close to offering what he wants.
Former Mets infielder and now Spanish radio broadcaster for the Cleveland Guardians, Carlos Baerga, reported on X that the Mets offered Alonso a three-year, $90 million deal with annual opt-out options. The New York Post’s Jon Heyman also revealed that there is a “sizable gap” between the two parties.
Baerga played 306 games with the Mets from 1996-1998. He was a three-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger in his career.
There is no way to confirm Baerga’s report. However, there is reason to believe that there is a gap in negotiations. The deal Alonso signed would put any organization in a tough position spending-wise. Alonso could sign a deal upwards of $200 million. Even for Steve Cohen, signing Alonso and Juan Soto in the same offseason to mega-deals is a stretch.
Alonso is a fan-favorite for the Mets. He is a four-time All-Star and the Mets will not be able to replace the power he brings from first base. Alonso is second to just Aaron Judge in home runs since he entered the league in 2019. Spotrac projects him to sign a six-year, $174 million deal, but the reality may be more.
The benefit for the Mets is there are not many teams that need and can afford Alonso. Many needy teams have already filled the position. The Houston Astros signed Christian Walker. The New York Yankees signed Paul Goldschmidt. The Cleveland Guardians traded Josh Naylor to the Arizona Diamondbacks and signed Carlos Santana.
There is a good chance Alonso is back with the Mets, but it may take some time for the Mets to get closer to what he wants.
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