The New York Mets struggled down the stretch this season. They had one of the highest payrolls in the league, but missed the postseason after falling apart down the stretch.
Now they’re watching first baseman Pete Alonso head into free agency for the second time in two years. The Mets should be the favorites to sign Alonso, but something could very quickly go wrong in his free agency sweepstakes.
Bleacher Report’s Erik Beaston recently predicted Alonso would ditch the Mets in free agency in favor of a deal with a new team.
“It will be incredibly difficult to find his production elsewhere, barring improbably signing free agent DH and NL MVP candidate Kyle Schwarber,” Beaston wrote. “There is still a discussion to have about Alonso’s willingness to give up first base and take on that designated hitter role amid concerns about his throwing.
“Something Alonso has not been open to. That change in roles, more than the money, may ultimately determine whether the 2019 Rookie of the Year continues his career in Queens for the only team he has known.”
The Mets need to prioritize Alonso after such a disappointing season. Alonso was one of the few bright spots on the roster this season, and he’s a fan favorite in Queens.
But the Mets have been reluctant to pay Alonso the money he wants. While there wasn’t a huge market for him last offseason, there should be one this winter.
The Boston Red Sox will likely be the favorites for Alonso if he opts to leave the Mets. Boston has the money and a hole at first base. The fit would make perfect sense.
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