As the New York Mets prepare for the 2025 season, one of their biggest dilemmas revolves around the future of star first baseman Pete Alonso. With free agency looming, the Mets must decide if Alonso will remain a cornerstone of the franchise by signing a long-term deal.
According to Bleacher Report’s Erik Beaston, Alonso is likely to stay in Queens, but his fate may depend on whether the Mets pursue outfielder Juan Soto. “The 2019 NL Rookie of the Year and two-time Home Run Derby champ has repeatedly expressed his desire to stay in New York, calling it ‘home’ ahead of this summer’s All-Star Game,” Beaston noted. However, he added, “Alonso is seeking a deal in the neighborhood of $200 million. If the Mets sign Soto, the likelihood that they bring Alonso back greatly diminishes.”
Despite Alonso’s desire to remain with the Mets, 2024 wasn’t his best platform year. He played in all 162 games for the first time in his career but posted a career-low .788 OPS. Still, he contributed 34 home runs, 31 doubles, 88 RBIs, and 91 runs in 695 plate appearances. His market value, as estimated by Spotrac, stands at six years and nearly $175 million.
Alonso’s Impact on the Mets Lineup
While 2024 was not Alonso’s most productive season, his contributions to the Mets since his 2019 debut are hard to overlook. That year, he set a franchise record with 53 home runs as a rookie. He also holds the Mets’ single-season RBI record, driving in 131 runs in 2022.
Since 2019, Alonso has slugged 226 homers, trailing only Mets legends David Wright (242) and Darryl Strawberry (252) in franchise history. His durability and power make him a critical component of New York’s offense. Alonso has played in at least 152 games each full season and has never finished with fewer than 34 home runs or 88 RBIs.
Can the Mets Sign Both Pete Alonso and Juan Soto?
The Mets have been rumored as strong contenders for Soto, especially if they are willing to match—or exceed—what the Yankees offer to keep him in the Bronx. If the Mets sign Soto, retaining Alonso could push their combined payroll for the two players north of $700 million.
Despite the high cost, some believe owner Steve Cohen is willing to make bold moves to secure both stars. One league executive familiar with Cohen told SNY’s Andy Martino in February, “I bet he goes for both.” Cohen’s aggressive spending in recent years supports this possibility. Before the 2023 season, the Mets shelled out nearly $500 million in free agency, and they were willing to spend another $200-300 million had the Carlos Correa deal gone through.
The Road Ahead
The decision on Alonso’s future will have a profound impact on the Mets’ long-term plans. With Alonso’s power and durability, keeping him could ensure a stable offensive presence for years to come. However, if they land Soto, the Mets might be faced with an even tougher choice—can they afford to keep both of these stars and still maintain flexibility to build a championship-caliber roster?
The offseason promises to be one of the most crucial in recent Mets history as they look to balance financial commitments, star power, and championship aspirations.
