"It's very difficult to find a place for Pete Alonso" - MLB insider backs ex-Mets star to stay in New York amid free agency turmoil
Pete Alonso remains one the biggest names on the free agent market, however, it's unclear when and where he will sign. One of the most prolific home run hitters, Alonso has been exploring the market for free-agent first basemen but has yet to agree to a new deal.
Although he has been linked to several different clubs, including the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox, there is a chance that it might be in Pete Alonso's best interest to return to the New York Mets. The Mets might be in the best position to win their first title since 1986 after landing Juan Soto in a historic 15-year, $765 million deal, and Alonso's return could boost that.
On the latest episode of "Foul Territory," MLB insider Anthony DiComo shared his thoughts on the four-time All-Star's free agency and why a return to the New York Mets might be in the best interest of both parties.
"Every other destination that you can come up with, other than the Yankees who by all accounts don't really seem to be in on him, every other destination is a fit but," DiComo said. "Whereas, in New York with the Mets, with a fan base that loves him, a player that likes the city ... that's the one market where it's just a fit period."
While DiComo mentioned a few other clubs linked to Alonso such as the Washington Nationals, Seattle Mariners and Toronto Blue Jays, there is uncertainty about his fit. Even though he is talented, Alonso's skillset and asking price might limit his potential landing spots.
"Maybe a team like the Blue Jays, who have all this apparently to throw around but haven't been able to throw it around, would be interest," DiComo said. "But they obviously have Vlad Jr. there, it becomes a messy situation ... It's just not as clean as fit."
Pete Alonso may need to lower his asking price as potential landing spots continue to dry up
Only New York Yankees superstar has hit more home runs than Pete Alonso since 2019. However, the market for first basemen does not pay nearly as well as the outfield. This is something that Alonso might be learning and he may need to lower his asking price to land in a desirable situation.
On Friday, the Houston Astros signed Christian Walker, one of the top three free agent first basemen, to a three-year, $60 million deal. Alonso is reportedly looking for a contract that could reach more than $150 million, however, the market just might not be there.
Alonso's options are shrinking with the Astros no longer needing a first baseman and the Yankees acquiring Cody Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs. While returning to the Mets might be inevitable, he may not secure the contract he wants.