DALLAS – While the baseball community is still reacting to Juan Soto’s historic contract with the New York Mets, the team’s president of baseball operations, David Stearns, is focused on another key player: first baseman Pete Alonso.
“We’d love to bring Pete back,” Stearns remarked during the winter meetings. “Pete’s been a significant part of the Mets’ success, contributing with many crucial hits. We will see how the situation evolves.”
Although Stearns refrained from commenting on the Soto agreement, he acknowledged that he would be negotiating with Alonso’s agent, Scott Boras, once again.
Alonso, who has become a fan favorite, was drafted in the second round in 2016 and has since blossomed into a four-time All-Star. Since making his debut in 2019, he has hit 216 home runs, making him the second-highest in that timeframe while consistently maintaining impressive game attendance. His dramatic home run in the National League Wild Card Series was pivotal in keeping the Mets’ playoff hopes alive, propelling them to the National League Championship Series.
However, Alonso faces scrutiny as he approaches his 30s; his skills as a defender and base runner are seen as drawbacks, and his offensive performance has seen a decline over the past three seasons.
Stearns expressed confidence in the ownership’s commitment to providing resources for team improvements. “Our ownership has repeatedly shown a willingness to invest when necessary,” he stated. “We will continue to explore various avenues to enhance our roster.”
If Alonso does not return to the Mets, moving breakout star Mark Vientos from third base to first base could be a potential strategy, though Stearns emphasized his preference for Vientos at third.
This offseason, the Mets have already seen some roster changes, including losing right-hander Luis Severino to the A’s in free agency. They have added outfielder Jose Siri and signed right-handed pitchers Frankie Montas and Clay Holmes to strengthen their rotation.
Stearns noted that while there is “room” for another starting pitcher, it isn’t seen as urgent. Key contributors from last season, such as left-handers Sean Manaea and Jose Quintana, remain available in free agency. Other notable veteran starters like Corbin Burnes, Max Fried, Jack Flaherty, and Walker Buehler are also options as free agency heats up.
Also noteworthy, Japanese star Roki Sasaki has been posted to MLB teams and will be available to sign as a free agent soon.
The Mets have solid options for their rotation, including David Peterson, Tylor Megill, Paul Blackburn, and Jose Butto, all of whom contributed last season.
In summary, while Alonso’s future with the Mets hangs in the balance, there are many factors at play that could ensure a positive outcome regardless of the situation. The team is actively pursuing avenues for improvement, indicating a strategic approach that could catch fans’ attention in the upcoming season.