This offseason, may the New York Mets pull off an unexpected move?
The Mets are in a unique situation. It’s been a surprisingly good offseason for New York. Despite not making a significant offseason expenditure, the Mets have strengthened their roster.
With several voids on their squad going into the summer, New York is undoubtedly in a better position going into the 2024 campaign. However, there is one very important question around the Mets as a team.
At the conclusion of the 2024 season, superstar slugger Pete Alonso will become a free agent, and it is unknown how long he will remain with the team. While some have predicted that he will ultimately sign a contract extension with the Mets, others have stated that a trade may be imminent.
The most likely scenario is that Alonso signs with New York to start the 2024 campaign. Perhaps a trade might be announced around the trade deadline if the Mets are having trouble. If the Mets do well, they might hold onto him until the summer and try to sign him again on the free agent market.
Regarding Alonso’s future, rumors and speculation have been rife, and it’s uncertain what will transpire. Paul Hembekides of ESPN boldly predicted that the team will eventually trade Alonso.
“The Mets will trade Pete Alonso entering his contract year,” Hembekides said. “I know, I know. Alonso is as beloved as any Met since David Wright and possesses near-unprecedented power (his 192 home runs through five seasons have him tied for third all-time). But there’s a new sheriff in town and his name is David Stearns.
“In his eight seasons as Brewers GM, Milwaukee used seven different Opening Day first basemen, including Ryan Braun (2018) and Keston Hiura (2021), both of whom converted to the position. In other words, Stearns has never prioritized first base. Unless owner Steve Cohen intervenes, Stearns will be more inclined to trade Alonso than extend him, capitalizing on a market devoid of bats like his.”
In New York, Alonso has become a fan favorite. The fan base would suffer greatly if the team traded him. Hopefully, a new agreement can be reached between the two parties.