Pete Alonso remains a fan favorite in Queens, New York, but the New York Mets are approaching a critical moment regarding his future. With an opt-out clause in his current contract after the 2025 season, Alonso’s decision could significantly influence the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/baseball/mlb/”>MLB free agency landscape.
The Mets Face a Crucial Choice on Alonso’s Long-Term Future
Alonso signed a two-year, $54 million extension before the 2025 season that includes the option to leave once the year concludes. Despite the mutual admiration between Alonso and the Mets, it seems unlikely he will accept another short-term deal given the potential for a lucrative long-term contract elsewhere.
This season, Alonso has delivered impressive performance statistics, batting .268 with 28 home runs, 100 RBIs, and an .871 OPS. At 30 years old, however, the Mets may hesitate to offer a substantial multi-year agreement due to salary concerns and roster planning.
Alonso’s impact, however, extends beyond numbers. He demonstrated his durability by playing all games in 2024 and played a crucial role in the postseason. In the National Wild Card Series against the Milwaukee Brewers, he hit a decisive three-run homer in Game 3, helping the Mets secure a 4-2 victory and eliminate Milwaukee.
One of Alonso’s most notable moments came on August 12, when he surpassed Darryl Strawberry by hitting his 253rd career home run, making him the New York Mets’ all-time home run leader. This milestone has added even more significance to his tenure with the team.
MLB Hall of Famer Gary Sheffield remarked on Alonso’s value, saying,
“He’s gonna be the reason why they win a championship in New York if they ever do.”
—Gary Sheffield, MLB Legend
Alonso’s Upcoming Decision and Its Implications
Money discussions could change the tone of Alonso’s relationship with the Mets, as he has long sought a long-term pact. The prevailing belief is that he will opt out of his current deal once the offseason begins and explore free agency.
Alonso is expected to attract significant attention across the league. Teams reportedly interested include the Toronto Blue Jays, Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago Cubs, Texas Rangers, Boston Red Sox, Seattle Mariners, and New York Yankees. Though the Los Angeles Dodgers typically remain in the mix for top talent, they may not be a viable destination due to their existing roster with Freddie Freeman at first base and Shohei Ohtani as designated hitter.
For the Mets, retaining Alonso will not come cheaply, nor is a hometown discount expected for one of baseball’s premier sluggers. The organization also manages a large financial commitment to Juan Soto, who is under contract through 2039, making salary flexibility a challenge for keeping both players.
This crossroads presents a defining choice for the Mets franchise as it pursues a World Series championship: whether to invest heavily and maintain their star first baseman or to pivot and rebuild without him. The outcome of Alonso’s contract decision could reshape the Mets’ competitive outlook in the coming years, and fans will be watching closely as the offseason approaches.