Pete Alonso’s decision to opt out of the final year of his contract with the New York Mets comes on the heels of one of the strongest offensive seasons of his career in 2025. After a challenging free agency last year, where Alonso returned to Queens due to a lackluster market, many are speculating whether he might be playing his last season with the Mets. Reports indicate the Mets are not entirely satisfied with Alonso’s defensive skills at first base, suggesting a potential role for him as a designated hitter if he stays.
Alonso, however, is open to the idea of taking on a DH role, particularly if it means playing for a competitive team. His agent, Scott Boras, has expressed that Alonso is willing to adapt. Meanwhile, recent discussions between Alonso and the Mets about a new contract have reportedly started on a more positive note than last year’s negotiations.
This creates a glimmer of hope for Mets fans for a potential reunion this winter, as the Mets might be the most fitting team for Alonso compared to other clubs in need of a first baseman. While teams like the Mariners and Padres could use his talents, they may hesitate to make the financial commitment required to acquire him. Other teams, such as the Pirates and Marlins, are looking for offensive boosts but would likely shy away from a significant investment in Alonso, considering their typical strategies.
The Boston Red Sox have also been mentioned as a possible destination for Alonso, particularly if they lose Alex Bregman to free agency. However, adding Alonso may complicate things due to existing young talent in their system. Similarly, the San Francisco Giants showed interest last year but have since incorporated Rafael Devers into their lineup.
In addition to these teams, the Baltimore Orioles might see Alonso as a strong candidate to enhance their roster, although their priority this offseason is expected to focus on pitching.
While the Mets are a logical fit for Alonso, they are also considering players making the transition from Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) as alternatives. Candidates like Munetaka Murakami and Kazuma Okamoto could provide young, dynamic options similar to Alonso’s power potential. Other free agents, such as Josh Naylor and Paul Goldschmidt, are available, but none can match the offensive output Alonso offers.
In conclusion, Alonso’s journey through free agency continues to unfold with various possibilities on the horizon. Fans can remain hopeful that his return to the Mets might be achievable, especially given the early optimistic signals in negotiations and the potential for a reshaped role within the team.