As the offseason progresses, one of the most prominent free agents in baseball, Pete Alonso, remains unsigned, leaving fans and analysts puzzled. Alonso, the former New York Mets first baseman, is widely regarded as the best available player at his position. Despite his track record as a power hitter and fan favorite, Alonso has yet to secure a new deal, underscoring the challenges facing high-profile free agents in today’s market.
Alonso’s free agency saga began after he declined a three-year extension from the Mets reportedly worth $68–70 million. His decision signaled a desire to test the open market, seeking a deal that reflects his standing as one of the game’s premier sluggers. With 192 career home runs and multiple All-Star appearances to his name, Alonso’s value as a middle-of-the-order bat is unquestionable.
However, Alonso’s market has been surprisingly quiet. Industry insiders suggest that several factors are at play. First, the economics of the first base position appear to be working against him. Many teams are hesitant to commit significant resources to a position traditionally viewed as less demanding defensively. Additionally, Alonso’s status as a player who declined a qualifying offer complicates matters. Teams signing him would forfeit valuable draft picks, a deterrent for clubs prioritizing long-term roster construction.
Despite these hurdles, Alonso has drawn interest from several teams, including the Toronto Blue Jays, San Francisco Giants, Seattle Mariners, and Los Angeles Angels. Each of these teams could use Alonso’s bat to bolster their lineups, but no deals have materialized. Financial considerations, including Alonso’s rumored desire for a long-term contract north of $100 million, have reportedly slowed negotiations.
Meanwhile, the Mets have moved forward, re-signing outfielder Jesse Winker and considering internal options like Mark Vientos for first base. Mets management has publicly acknowledged that Alonso’s return is unlikely, marking a stark departure from the days when he was seen as a cornerstone of their franchise.
As spring training approaches, the question remains: where will Pete Alonso land? His combination of power, consistency, and leadership makes him an attractive option, yet the dynamics of free agency have left him in limbo. For now, Alonso’s future remains one of the biggest stories of the offseason, a situation that underscores the complexities of the modern MLB market.
