The New York Mets were seemingly alright with losing slugger Pete Alonso in free agency last offseason as they chased superstar Juan Soto instead. After landing Soto, Alonso sat in free agency with little to no market generating for his services.
After weeks of no movement, the slugger ended up re-signing with the Mets on a two-year deal worth $54 million. A key part of the deal is the opt-out clause after the first season, which allows the slugger to re-enter free agency at the end of this season.
Considering Alonso has been one of the best sluggers in the National League and may hit 40 home runs on the year, he’s expected to opt out of his deal at the end of the season.
If Alonso lands back in free agency, the market is bound to be hotter for his services this winter.
MLB insider Jon Heyman recently suggested the New York Yankees could emerge as a potential suitor for Alonso this winter, though he noted that the Mets make the most sense to retain the slugger.
The Yankees signed Paul Goldschmidt last offseason, but they’re expected to cut ties with the veteran at the end of the season. That leaves Ben Rice at first base for the Bronx Bombers, but Rice has also emerged as an option at catcher.
If the Yankees can land Alonso, that would allow him to play first base while Rice catches. It would be a massive upgrade to the Yankees’ lineup. Adding Alonso next to Aaron Judge would be nightmare fuel for American League East pitchers.
But the Mets should be considered the favorites in the Alonso sweepstakes for the time being. Still, the Yankees are quite the intriguing option.
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