“I wouldn’t wait for him as a free agent” - MLB podcaster weighs in on the Mets’ potential future with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. over Pete Alonso
The Mets are almost certain that they will have a reunion with their star infielder Pete Alonso. They are also invested in signing Juan Soto, but with other teams looking to propose a strong multi-year deal for the 30-year-old, the Mets might have to look at other options.
One of the names that have popped up is Vladimir Guerrero Jr. of the Toronto Blue Jays. Vladimir is an all-round hitter, going .323 with 30 home runs and making it to the All-MLB First Team. Heading into 2025, it will be the last season in Toronto before he can test free agency waters.
The question of the Mets getting in on signing Guerrero next year was addressed on the Mets Pod co-hosted by Connor Rogers and Joe DeMayo. As per DeMayo, it won't be ideal for the team to wait an entire year for the 25-year-old just because they couldn't lock in Alonso.
DeMayo said that it would be more favorable if the Mets could trade for the four-time All-Star next year and strike a deal similar to Matt Olson's with the Atlanta Braves, where the Mets retain him without going into free agency.
"I wouldn't wait for him as a free agent," he said. "That wouldn't be a decision for me. But if the Blue Jays wanted to talk some type of deal, and Vlad was interested in doing similar to Olson, where it's a 'You get traded here and you sign an extension here', you could talk me into that, but I I still believe in my heart that pied Alonso is just going to be back with the Mets."
Mets linked to other alternatives for Pete Alonso
While the Mets will keep an eye on Vladimir Guerrero Jr., it's also being predicted that they could look for a possible trade for Cardinals veteran Nolan Arenado.
The infielder hit .272 with 16 home runs last season, which was considered a down season by his standards. Nevertheless, Arenado remains one of the best defensive players, winning 10 Gold Gloves at third base.
As per Matt Snyder of CBS Sports, the Metsies could look to bring the 33-year-old if Alonso goes elsewhere. Arenado has also expressed his intention of moving to first base, filling up Pete's position. The Mets could consider moving Mark Vientos to first and keep Arenado at his preferred position in the diamond as well.