New York Mets fans, get ready to celebrate: Juan Soto has officially joined the team, creating a major buzz across the league as the Mets look to solidify their position as serious World Series contenders. However, with this exciting acquisition comes uncertainty surrounding the future of one of the team’s previous stars, first baseman Pete Alonso.
Alonso had a less-than-stellar season by his usual remarkable standards, which may affect his marketability as he approaches free agency. Last year, he turned down a seven-year, $158 million extension from the Mets, and he is likely seeking a similar contract now. While Alonso has expressed a willingness to give the Mets the chance to match any offers he receives, the entrance of Soto could mean the Mets are less inclined to meet his demands, especially if other teams present more lucrative proposals.
R.J. Anderson from CBS Sports has suggested that Alonso could find a new home with the Washington Nationals, a team in search of star talent following consecutive seasons with only 74 wins. He noted that Alonso’s profile as a right-handed hitting first baseman may complicate his free agency journey, but the Nationals could offer a competitive price that aligns with their rebuilding strategy.
Although Alonso may not be as high-profile as Soto, he remains a formidable player, consistently hitting a guaranteed 30 home runs and potentially approaching 50 in a robust season. If he doesn’t break the Mets’ all-time home run record in 2025—falling short by 26 homers—he is still well on his way to achieving the significant milestone of 500 home runs in his career.
While the prospect of Alonso’s departure is a loss for the Mets, it also presents an opportunity for him to contribute to a young and promising Nationals lineup that includes exciting outfield prospects like James Wood and Dylan Crews. Furthermore, if he does sign with Washington, Alonso will have ample chances to face the Mets and seek personal redemption.
In the broader picture, the Mets are making bold moves that illustrate their commitment to winning, and while they may face tough decisions regarding their roster, fans can remain hopeful. Any new dynamics brought by Soto and Alonso can produce thrilling moments in the upcoming seasons of Major League Baseball.