The New York Mets found a way to keep Pete Alonso in Queens for at least one more season last winter. However, his current contract does not guarantee he will be there beyond 2025.
Alonso signed a two-year, $54 million deal with the Mets last winter and was one of the last big free agents to sign. His deal includes a player option for 2026, however. That means he will have a decision to make this offseason on whether he wants to stay with the Mets to finish out his contract. The Athletic’s Jim Bowden believes Alosno is set up to opt out of his deal and hit free agency, meaning the Mets could lose him.
“He likely will opt out and get the long-term contract he sought last offseason before returning to the Mets on a two-year, $54 million deal,” wrote Bowden. “If he doesn’t stay in New York, Alonso would be a fit with several teams including the Phillies (Bryce Harper would seem willing to move back to the outfield for him), (Chicago) Cubs (they would have to be interested if they lose out on Tucker), (Texas) Rangers and (Seattle) Mariners (both would benefit from his power bat and leadership, as would the Red Sox, particularly if they keep Rafael Devers at DH).
Even if Alonso opts out, the Mets could keep him around. However, after the year he is putting together, it will come at a hefty price. His average is .294, well above where he usually hits. He is showing signs of his rookie self, hitting for power and average.
The Mets did not commit to him long-term last winter, but neither did any other suitors. Now he will have a stronger market, and the Mets could lose him to another contender.
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Since 2019, only Aaron Judge has hit more home runs than Alonso. He currently has nine home runs and a National League-best 16 doubles. He has noted in the past that he wants to keep playing for the Mets, but if he opts out after a great season, there is a chance they won’t be able to beat other offers he gets.
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