Mets’ Sean Manaea Eyes Alonso’s Return Amid Offseason Moves

TAMPA, Fla. — Sean Manaea, the New York Mets‘ newly signed left-hander, is hopeful that Pete Alonso will rejoin the team as the offseason progresses. Manaea, who has been working out with Alonso at Diesel Optimization in Tampa, expressed his desire to see the slugger return to the Mets during a Zoom call on Monday.

“I’m always gonna support him, and I’d definitely love to have him back on the Mets and be our first baseman,” Manaea said. “Hopefully, we can get that done, but whatever happens, I’ll be happy for him.”

Manaea, who signed a two-year, $28 million deal with the Mets this offseason, has been teammates with Alonso before in San Diego. The two have spent most days training together, with Alonso often arriving earlier than Manaea. The Mets are counting on Manaea to replicate his strong performance from last season, where he posted a 3.09 ERA in his final 12 starts and three playoff appearances.

The Mets have been active this offseason, acquiring Juan Soto and Frankie Montas, another former teammate of Manaea. Soto, who signed a 15-year, $765 million deal, is expected to be a key player in the Mets’ outfield. Manaea praised Soto’s energy and impact, recalling their time together in San Diego. “When he first came over, you could feel his energy and what he brings to the table,” Manaea said. “He carried that through the rest of the season and postseason. We have some history. I’m happy he’s here.”

Manaea’s resurgence last season was credited to adjustments made with the help of Mets pitching coach Jeremy Hefner. “It made sense to come back here,” Manaea said, calling the Mets “a perfect fit” in free agency. He pitched a career-high 181 2/3 innings in 2023 and will be part of a rotation that includes Kodai Senga, Clay Holmes, and Griffin Canning.

As for Alonso, the Mets’ star first baseman remains a free agent. Alonso, who has hit 80 home runs over the past two seasons, is one of the most prolific power hitters in baseball. However, his recent dip in performance and rising strikeout rate have raised concerns. Alonso’s market value has been a topic of speculation, with some analysts predicting a short-term deal similar to Cody Bellinger’s contract.

Manaea, meanwhile, is focused on improving his changeup, which he admits has been inconsistent. “I’m working on it every day,” he said. “It’s been a big focus for me this offseason.”

As the Mets prepare for the 2025 season, the potential return of Alonso remains a key storyline. Whether the “Polar Bear” stays in Queens or finds a new home, Manaea and the Mets are optimistic about their chances with their revamped roster.