The first base market has been fascinating to watch this offseason. Pete Alonso and Christian Walker were widely regarded as the top two options available. The Houston Astros secured Walker on a three-year contract, while Alonso remains unsigned as of Monday morning.
The New York Yankees made a splash by signing Paul Goldschmidt in free agency. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Guardians traded Josh Naylor to the Arizona Diamondbacks and brought in Carlos Santana to fill their first base need. The Washington Nationals, initially seen as contenders for Alonso, opted to trade for Nathaniel Lowe from the Texas Rangers.
So, what’s next for Alonso?
Quinn Everts of FanSided recently predicted Alonso will re-sign with the Mets, and that scenario seems increasingly likely.
“It’s not the most exciting outcome for general MLB fans, but it’s the one that makes the most sense,” Everts wrote. “With most teams in need of a first baseman already addressing the position, Alonso’s market has shrunk to, well, basically the Mets.
“Seattle is another potential destination, but it’s hard to imagine the Mariners paying the hefty price tag Alonso commands—especially after other teams have moved on. At this point, Alonso staying with the Mets feels like a foregone conclusion, but the details of the contract will be intriguing.”
While the Seattle Mariners could make a play for Alonso, they likely can’t match the spending power of Mets owner Steve Cohen.
As Everts notes, the terms of Alonso’s contract will be the real story. With the Mets recently deferring part of Sean Manaea’s deal, they have the flexibility to offer Alonso a substantial contract this winter.
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