As speculation swirls around Pete Alonso’s future, the free agent market for the New York Mets’ star home run hitter is heating up in ways few anticipated. While Toronto’s signing of Anthony Santander effectively removed them from contention, a “mystery team” may still be vying for Alonso’s services, keeping fans and analysts alike on edge.
Toronto Bows Out After Santander Deal
The Toronto Blue Jays’ splashy acquisition of former Baltimore Orioles slugger Anthony Santander over the weekend sent ripples through Major League Baseball. The four-year, $92.5 million deal strengthened Toronto’s offensive lineup but seemingly closed the door on their pursuit of another high-profile slugger. Pete Alonso, the Mets’ heavy-hitting first baseman, had been loosely linked to Toronto before the Santander deal, but the hefty contract shifted their focus.
Jim Duquette, a former Mets general manager and current analyst, weighed in during a discussion on SNY’s “Hot Stove” program. He dismissed Toronto as a contender for Alonso, citing their recent financial commitments and focus on other offensive needs. “That’s out of the equation, I think, with Toronto,” Duquette stated. “They say they’re going to be in on the offensive side, but it doesn’t seem like they’re going to be in for Pete Alonso.”
Toronto’s departure from the Alonso sweepstakes highlights the complexities of MLB payrolls. Signing Alonso would have forced Toronto to exceed the $281 million competitive balance tax threshold, triggering additional financial penalties. For a team already leveraging its resources, the costs were deemed prohibitive.
The Mets and Their Hesitation
The Mets’ initial offer to Alonso—a three-year deal—has also raised eyebrows. Alonso reportedly seeks a longer-term contract, aiming for a deal spanning seven to nine years. This discrepancy has created an impasse, leaving the Mets vulnerable to outside bidders.
Alonso, who earned the 2019 National League Rookie of the Year honor, has been a cornerstone of the Mets’ offense since his debut. His 53-home-run rookie campaign shattered records, and his consistent production has made him a fan favorite in New York. Yet the Mets seem hesitant to commit to a long-term deal, possibly due to the recent trend of large contracts backfiring across the league.
Could this hesitancy be a strategic gamble? Or are the Mets underestimating the competition Alonso might attract on the open market? These questions loom large as Alonso remains unsigned.
Who is the “Mystery Team”?
The idea of a mystery team has added intrigue to Alonso’s free agency. Duquette speculated that this unknown contender could be the Los Angeles Angels, the San Francisco Giants, or another surprise suitor.
The Angels, always in search of ways to bolster their lineup around Shohei Ohtani and Mike Trout, seem like a logical fit. However, with Ohtani set to enter free agency after the 2024 season, their financial priorities may lie elsewhere.
The Giants, meanwhile, have struggled to secure a marquee name in recent years, with failed pursuits of Aaron Judge and Carlos Correa highlighting their offseason woes. Adding Alonso would not only bolster their offense but also help them re-establish themselves as a destination for top-tier talent.
Duquette offered no confirmation, however, leaving fans to speculate. “Is it the Angels? Is it the Giants? Where is the mystery team the Mets are supposedly competing with for his services?” he asked.
What’s Next for Alonso?
With spring training just weeks away, the clock is ticking for Alonso and his suitors to reach a deal. For the Mets, retaining their star slugger is crucial if they want to remain competitive in a division stacked with talent. However, their reluctance to offer a long-term commitment could open the door for another team to swoop in.
The question is, will Alonso find the deal he’s seeking, or will he be forced to compromise? For now, the slugger’s fate remains one of the biggest mysteries of the offseason.
