Pete Alonso, Mets Negotiate Short-Term Deal with Opt-Outs

New York Mets star Pete Alonsou2019s camp has proposed a three-year contract with opt-outs, according to sources familiar with the negotiations. The offer, reported by SiriusXM analyst and former general manager Jim Duquette, is currently exclusive to the Mets. Alonsou2019s agent, Scott Boras, declined to comment on the matter.

The willingness to consider a short-term deal marks a significant shift in Alonsou2019s contract discussions. While the Mets have shown a preference for shorter contracts after committing to a record-breaking 15-year deal for Francisco Lindor, the financial terms of Alonsou2019s proposed deal remain undisclosed. This leaves uncertainty about whether the negotiations have progressed significantly.

Alonso, 30, entered the offseason as the top available first baseman and ranked No. 8 on The Athleticu2019s free-agent rankings. Despite a flurry of activity in the first-base market, Alonso has remained unsigned. A reunion with the Mets, where he is a homegrown star and fan favorite, remains a logical outcome. However, contract length has reportedly been a sticking point.

Earlier this offseason, The Athleticu2019s Tim Britton projected Alonso to secure a five-year, $140 million deal. Alonsou2019s camp could argue for such a figure based on his elite power and durability. Through his age-29 season, Alonso has 226 home runs in 3,607 plate appearances and has missed just 24 games over six seasons. In 2023, he played all 162 regular-season games and 13 postseason contests.

Despite his impressive power numbers, some analysts question how other aspects of Alonsou2019s game will age. He does not walk at a high rate and is not considered an above-average defender. These factors could influence the Metsu2019 decision-making as they weigh their options.

If the Mets do not re-sign Alonso, they could explore external options for first base or shift Brett Baty to first while acquiring a new third baseman. However, the team may also consider internal candidates like Mark Vientos or Ronny Mauricio for the hot corner.

Alonsou2019s future with the Mets remains uncertain, but the latest developments suggest both sides are exploring creative solutions to keep the slugger in Queens.