Spring training is just around the corner, and free agent slugger Pete Alonso might be heading back to Queens – but not the way he originally planned.
The former Mets first baseman and his agent Scott Boras have reportedly approached the team about a three-year deal with opt-outs, similar to what several other Boras clients signed last year.
It’s a big shift from the massive long-term deal Alonso likely wanted when free agency began. But with camps opening in about a month, the pressure is on to find a home for 2025.
The salary details aren’t public yet, though The Athletic suggests it could be around $34.1 million per year – which would set a new record for first basemen.
Alonso’s been a force since breaking into the majors in 2019. His 226 home runs are second only to Aaron Judge during that span, and he’s been incredibly durable, playing in 846 of 870 possible games.
But the free agent market hasn’t been kind to first basemen on the wrong side of 30 lately. At age 30, Alonso’s finding that out the hard way.
For the Mets, bringing back their homegrown star makes a lot of sense. Their lineup could use another big bat behind Juan Soto, and Alonso’s already beloved by fans. He’s just 27 homers away from becoming the franchise’s all-time home run king.
The team would also avoid the risk of a long-term deal. Even if Alonso exercises all his options, they’d only be on the hook for three years.
Other teams like the Angels and Blue Jays have shown interest, but Alonso’s camp has only offered this type of deal to the Mets so far.
With spring training getting closer, both sides might find this is their best option. Alonso gets a huge salary and the chance to test free agency again soon. The Mets keep their popular slugger without a risky long-term commitment.
It’s not the mega-deal Alonso dreamed of, but in today’s market, it could be a win-win for everyone involved.
