Mets’ Quiet Offseason Sets Stage for Expensive Pursuits Next Winter
The New York Mets have been relatively quiet this offseason, but that could all change next year. President of baseball operations David Stearns has been hard at work reshaping the team’s roster for 2024, making under-the-radar signings and securing only one multi-year deal. Rumors are swirling that these moves are setting the stage for a big splash in free agency next winter, with the Mets targeting first baseman Pete Alonso and outfielder Juan Soto.
According to a report from SNY’s Andy Martino, the Mets are gearing up to make a run at Soto, who is currently preparing for his first season with the New York Yankees. While nothing is set in stone, there is no reason why the Mets wouldn’t go all-out for the talented outfielder.
But what does this mean for Alonso? Will he be left out in the cold if the Mets prioritize Soto and sign him to a massive contract? Not necessarily. One league executive, who is familiar with Mets owner Steve Cohen, believes the team will go after both players.
Signing both Soto and Alonso would come at a hefty price. The Athletic’s Tim Britton projects that Soto’s next contract could be worth a staggering $540 million over 14 years. Meanwhile, the New York Post’s Jon Heyman suggests that it could take at least $200 million to retain Alonso’s services.
Stearns has been transparent about his desire to keep Alonso in New York for the long term. However, he acknowledges that Alonso reaching free agency is the most likely scenario at this point. Alonso himself addressed the situation during a recent media appearance, expressing his love for the Mets and his desire to stay with the team.
While the future remains uncertain, Alonso envisions himself as a lifelong Met. He embraces the idea but understands that he cannot predict what lies ahead. For now, his focus is on the upcoming season and being the best player he can be.
The Mets’ offseason may have been quiet, but it could be the calm before the storm. With the potential pursuit of Alonso and Soto looming, the team is poised to make a splash in free agency next winter. Only time will tell if these aspirations become a reality.
ALONSO’S FUTURE WITH METS: WILL HE STAY OR GO?
As the possibility of Pete Alonso reaching free agency looms, fans are left wondering if the slugger will remain a Met for life. Despite no discussions between Alonso’s camp and the Mets this winter, the one-year, $20.5 million deal for 2024 was agreed upon. However, if General Manager Stearns is truly committed to keeping Alonso, starting a conversation about a long-term contract seems necessary.
The idea of keeping Alonso in the Mets’ lineup alongside Juan Soto is an exciting prospect for fans. Alonso has already become one of New York’s most prolific home run hitters, with a total of 192 career home runs. This ties him with Howard Johnson for the fourth-most home runs in Mets history. Alonso’s power has been showcased through three 40-homer seasons, a feat achieved by only three other Mets hitters before him.
Pairing Alonso with shortstop Francisco Lindor seems like an obvious choice. However, the Mets could benefit from adding another power bat to their lineup. This is why rumors have connected the club to various veteran free-agent hitters this offseason.
One player who could fill this need is Juan Soto. At just 25 years old, Soto is a consistent threat to hit 30 home runs with impressive stats across his career. With a career triple slash of .284/.410/.519 and numerous accolades, including three All-Star appearances, a Home Run Derby championship, a batting title, and four Silver Slugger Awards, Soto’s impact on the Mets’ lineup would be undeniable. Additionally, he played a key role in the Washington Nationals’ 2019 World Series victory.
While the addition of Soto would greatly enhance the Mets’ lineup, other teams will undoubtedly be vying for his services as well. It remains to be seen how serious the Mets are about pursuing both Alonso and Soto in the upcoming free agency period. Fans will be eagerly watching to see how this situation unfolds.
According to the Source heavy.com