The New York Mets have all but accepted that the first base position will look very different next season, with Pete Alonso likely on his way out. In fact, Alonso’s own comments during the season make it seem almost guaranteed.
“But again, we’ll see what happens. I love it, it’s great, but you can’t really predict anything. And for me… I am focused on trying to put this thing across the finish line. I haven’t really thought about the free agent thing until we’re talking about it right now,” Alonso said. “It would be great to stay. But, again, whatever happens, happens. I can’t get a crystal ball. I wish I could, but we’ll see.”
Alonso is expected to be one of the top names in free agency this winter, and MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand believes the San Francisco Giants could make a strong push for the first baseman.
“Like Bregman, it took Alonso until mid-February to land a deal, re-signing with the Mets for two years and $54 million. Alonso has said he plans to opt out of the final year and $24 million of the deal to give free agency another try, and with 38 home runs, 126 RBIs and an .871 OPS in 162 games this season—not to mention the absence of a qualifying offer—he should draw more interest than he did a year ago,” Feinsand wrote.
The Giants have plenty of excitement surrounding their team after hiring one of the more notable managerial names in Tony Vitello.
“Throughout our search, Tony’s leadership, competitiveness, and commitment to developing players stood out. His ability to build strong, cohesive teams and his passion for the game align perfectly with the values of our organization. We look forward to the energy and direction he will bring, along with the memories to be made, as we focus on the future of Giants baseball,” Posey said.
If the Giants do go all in for Alonso, it could push Rafael Devers back to designated hitter. This is noteworthy because Devers has seen some action at first base, but he was never fully comfortable in the DH role with the Red Sox. Alonso is unquestionably the stronger first baseman, but how Devers reacts could make this a storyline to watch closely.
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