DALLAS — The baseball community is abuzz with discussions surrounding Juan Soto’s record-setting contract with the New York Mets. However, David Stearns, who oversees the team’s baseball operations, chose not to comment on the transaction as it remains unofficial. Instead, he shared his thoughts on another prominent player represented by Scott Boras, first baseman Pete Alonso.
“We’d love to bring Pete back,” Stearns stated. “Pete’s been a great Met. He had some enormous hits for us, and we’ll see where that goes.” Alonso, a fan favorite who has enjoyed considerable success with the Mets since being drafted in 2016, boasts a remarkable record of 216 home runs, making him a crucial player for the team. His impactful performances, including a heroic home run in the National League Wild Card Series that propelled the Mets to the National League Championship Series, have solidified his place in the hearts of fans.
However, Alonso’s recent performance raises questions. At 30 years old, concerns exist regarding his defensive capabilities and running speed, while his offensive output has seen a decline over the past three seasons. Despite these concerns, Stearns expressed confidence in the team’s resources for making improvements. “I think our ownership has consistently demonstrated that there’s going to be resources when we need them,” he noted, underscoring the team’s commitment to enhancing the roster.
While there’s speculation about moving Mark Vientos, a breakout star of 2024, from third base to first should Alonso not return, Stearns emphasized his preference to keep Vientos at third base.
So far this offseason, the Mets have made some significant moves, including the loss of right-hander Luis Severino to the A’s in free agency, the acquisition of outfielder Jose Siri, and the signing of right-handers Frankie Montas and Clay Holmes to bolster their starting rotation. Stearns indicated there is still “room” for adding another starting pitcher but does not view it as critical. Veteran left-handers Sean Manaea and Jose Quintana remain available as free agents, while notable starters like Corbin Burnes, Max Fried, Jack Flaherty, and Walker Buehler are also on the market.
Adding to the excitement, Japanese superstar Roki Sasaki has officially been posted to MLB teams and will be open for signing starting Tuesday. The Mets, in addition to Montas and Holmes, still have David Peterson, Tylor Megill, Paul Blackburn, and Jose Butto as rotation options from last season.
This offseason presents an opportunity for the Mets to not only reinforce their roster but also to retain key talent like Alonso, which could yield a promising upcoming season for the team.