In the midst of excitement surrounding Juan Soto’s monumental contract with the New York Mets, David Stearns, the team’s head of baseball operations, held a media session where he refrained from discussing Soto’s trade due to its unofficial nature. Instead, he focused on another key figure in the Mets’ roster, first baseman Pete Alonso, who is currently navigating the free agency market.
Stearns expressed a desire to retain Alonso, stating, “We’d love to bring Pete back. Pete’s been a great Met.” Alonso, a homegrown talent and fan favorite, has made a significant impact on the team since joining in 2019, amassing 216 home runs and earning four All-Star selections. Notably, he played a pivotal role in the Mets’ success during the recent National League postseason, demonstrating his ability to deliver during critical moments.
However, there are questions surrounding Alonso’s future with the Mets, especially given concerns about his defensive capabilities and a noticeable decline in his offensive performance over the past three years. Stearns emphasized that ownership is committed to providing the necessary resources to enhance the team, underscoring the organization’s exploration of various avenues for improvement.
In terms of personnel, the Mets have seen changes this offseason, including the loss of right-hander Luis Severino to the Athletics, as well as the acquisition of outfielder Jose Siri and signings of pitchers Frankie Montas and Clay Holmes. While additional starting pitching is on the horizon, Stearns indicated that it isn’t currently essential, leaving open the potential for checking on other key free agents like Sean Manaea and Corbin Burnes.
As the offseason progresses, newly posted Japanese star Roki Sasaki stands out as a potential addition for MLB teams, further increasing excitement and opportunities in the free agency market.
Overall, the Mets are in a transitional phase but remain dedicated to building a competitive team. The focus on securing Alonso reflects their commitment to maintaining a strong core of talented players, promising an engaging season ahead for Mets fans.
It’s an optimistic time as the organization looks to adapt and strengthen its roster, ensuring competitive play while keeping beloved players close.