The New York Mets are considered the frontrunners to re-sign free-agent slugger Pete Alonso this offseason. Alonso is reportedly seeking a contract exceeding $150 million, though it’s uncertain whether any team will meet that price. As his market becomes clearer, more teams are reportedly in the mix than initially expected. According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, eight teams, including the Boston Red Sox and Toronto Blue Jays, have shown interest in Alonso.
Nightengale notes that Alonso could ultimately return to the Mets on a short-term deal with an opt-out clause if he doesn’t secure a long-term offer. “There currently are eight teams showing at least some interest in Alonso, including the Toronto Blue Jays and Boston Red Sox,” Nightengale wrote. “But in the game of first base musical chairs where 11 teams have a new first baseman, Alonso is still left standing.”
Free agency remains unpredictable, as shown by Corbin Burnes’ surprising decision to sign with the Arizona Diamondbacks, despite minimal insider speculation. A similar surprise could happen with Alonso. The Red Sox’s late emergence as a contender mirrors Burnes’ unexpected move, though not as shocking. Boston has been linked to players like Nolan Arenado and Alex Bregman, with plans to shift Rafael Devers to first base. Pursuing Alonso would allow Devers to remain at third base while Alonso and Triston Casas share duties at first base and designated hitter.
