The New York Mets are no strangers to shaking things up, and the latest rumor swirling around Major League Baseball might just prompt them to make a bold pivot.
With Pete Alonso’s contract negotiations dragging on, there’s talk of the Mets possibly redirecting their efforts toward another All-Star power bat still available on the free-agent market: Anthony Santander.
First, let’s acknowledge what the Mets have accomplished this offseason. After an impressive NLCS run, they made it clear that standing still wasn’t an option.
They tackled their rotation issues by re-signing Sean Manaea and bringing in two other intriguing veterans. But the real headline-grabber?
The Mets locking in Juan Soto on a record-breaking $765 million deal was clearly this offseason’s biggest move. The move raised eyebrows across the league and solidified the team’s commitment to staying in contention for years to come.
Pete Alonso’s Future in Limbo
Even with these blockbuster moves, one big question hangs over the Mets’ head. What’s the plan with Pete Alonso? The four-time All-Star slugged 34 homers and racked up 88 RBIs in 2024 remains unsigned.
Reports suggest the Mets offered him a three-year, $90 million deal, but Alonso is apparently holding out for something either longer or more flexible.
The gap in negotiations has left fans and analysts alike wondering whether a resolution is in sight—or if the Mets might simply walk away.
Anthony Santander: A Power Bat with Potential
Enter Anthony Santander. According to The Athletic, Santander and fellow free agent Jack Flaherty are open to short-term, high-value deals.
This puts the Baltimore Orioles’ slugging outfielder squarely on the Mets’ radar. Santander is coming off a monster year, smashing 44 home runs and driving in 102 RBIs.
Slotting him into left field or as a designated hitter would give the Mets a fearsome lineup, especially with Soto needing lineup protection to replicate his MVP-caliber season.
The Trade-Offs of Letting Pete Alonso Walk
Shifting from Alonso to Santander comes with it’s trade-offs. Santander, while an elite power hitter, doesn’t replace Alonso’s presence at first base.
There’s always the risk that Santander’s breakout season was perfectly timed for a free-agent payday, raising questions about whether he can sustain that level of production.
Santander could be a game-changing addition to an already potent offense. If the Mets grow weary of Alonso’s contract demands, Santander’s willingness to play ball on a short-term deal might make him the perfect alternative.
For Mets fans, this offseason already feels like a rollercoaster—and it’s not over yet. Stay tuned because the next move could be another seismic one.
