As the MLB free agency frenzy begins to wind down, one name remains on the market: Pete Alonso. The slugging first baseman, known for his power and consistency, is still holding out for a deal. While the offseason’s biggest stars have already found new homes, Alonso hasn’t. Rumors have been going around that several teams have shown interest, but none have yet emerged as clear frontrunners.
Alonso is weighing his options carefully and patiently. The infielder is likely trying to secure the kind of contract that reflects his status as one of the game’s premier power hitters. The question that lingered in everyone’s mind when Alonso hit free agency is still left unanswered. Where will the Polar Bear land, and who will ultimately meet his asking price?
MLB Insider remarks on Pete Alonso’s future
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On SNY’s Heating Up the Stove panel, the conversation shifted to Pete Alonso’s future. The panelists raised a growing concern that his extended time on the market could impact his performance heading into 2025. One of the panelsist, John Jastremski, raised a valid point. He used the reference of the struggles of Scott Boras’ clients Jordan Montgomery and Blake Snell had in the previous offseason. “Look at what happened to Jordan Montgomery last year,” Jastremski said. “If I’m a client, if I’m a prospective free agent, I don’t want to be waiting going in a March or April figuring out where I’m playing baseball.”
His point was clear: dragging out negotiations can have real consequences for a player’s early-season performance. With Alonso still on the market, Jastremski’s words might hit home, urging Boras to avoid a repeat of last year’s situation. Jastremski suggested that Alonso’s camp, led by super-agent Scott Boras, should be pushing hard for a resolution before the market shifts further.
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With teams locking up other key free agents, Alonso’s best move might be to strike while the iron’s hot, ensuring he’s fully settled with a new team well ahead of spring training.
The Mets are not not an option
The New York Mets are still in talks with Pete Alonso, but a deal is far from imminent. Several reports have said that there’s a significant gap between the two sides. In the meantime, the Mets aren’t sitting idle. They’ve begun exploring backup plans for first base, with the possibility of shifting Mark Vientos into the role. On the infield, the team could give young prospects like Brett Baty or Ronny Mauricio a shot at third base.
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As negotiations with Alonso drag on, it’s clear the Mets are preparing for all possibilities. Pete Alonso remains one of the most beloved players in Queens. However, his bad 2024 season has reduced his market value. There was chatter about Alonso potentially joining the Yankees, but it eventually died down. With players like Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton already locked in for the long term, the Yankees’ lineup is crowded.
Though Alonso shares a strong bond with Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner, both have ties to the University of Florida and Tampa. It seems like those connections weren’t enough to convince the Bombers. In the end, Steinbrenner gave in to the vision of general manager Brian Cashman. The Yankees opted to use their resources for other big-name targets, like Cody Bellinger and Paul Goldschmidt. As the free agent market continues to evolve, Alonso’s future remains uncertain, but it’s clear that the Yankees won’t be his next destination.