Mets Aim for World Series Glory with Soto Signing, but Alonso’s Future Remains Uncertain
The New York Mets surprised many with their notable playoff run in 2024, overcoming the Milwaukee Brewers and Philadelphia Phillies before falling to the Los Angeles Dodgers in the National League Championship Series.fueled by this taste of October baseball, the Mets made a splash in the offseason, securing the services of star free agent Juan Soto, formerly of the New York Yankees.This acquisition signals the Mets’ clear intention to contend for the World Series title in 2025. However, MLB analyst Jim Memolo believes the team needs to take another crucial step: re-signing first baseman Pete Alonso.”The Soto signing is a fantastic move for the Mets, and they need to build on that momentum by bringing back Alonso,” Memolo stated on MLB Network Radio on Sirius XM.
While the Mets are eager to retain alonso, a six-year veteran who has spent his entire MLB career with the team, a financial impasse seems to be developing. Despite a somewhat underwhelming 2024 season, Alonso remained a consistent presence in the lineup, appearing in all 162 games and posting a respectable .240 batting average with 34 home runs, 88 RBIs, and a .788 OPS.
Memolo emphasizes that bringing back Alonso would demonstrate a commitment to building a championship-caliber team around Soto. The Mets’ last World Series victory came in 1986,and reuniting Alonso with soto could provide the franchise with it’s best prospect to end that drought in decades.
As contract negotiations continue, the Mets fanbase anxiously awaits news regarding Alonso’s future. Will the team be able to bridge the financial gap and secure the services of their homegrown slugger? Only time will tell.
related: Insider Sheds Light on Pete Alonso’s Contract Stalemate
Mets’ Alonso Dilemma: Can Gotham Bridge the Gap and Land their Slugger?
When it comes to New York sports, drama is practically encoded in the DNA. But even by Big Apple standards,the current standoff between the Mets and first baseman Pete Alonso has fans on edge.
to break down this fascinating situation and what it means for the Mets’ championship hopes, we sat down with former Mets infielder Edgardo Alfonzo, a World Series champion himself, for a candid conversation.
Moderator: Edgardo,thanks for joining us. The Mets made a highly impactful move by signing Juan Soto. Do you think this elevates them into genuine World Series contenders, and what impact does alonso’s situation have on those aspirations?
Edgardo Alfonzo: Soto’s arrival is a definite game-changer. He’s a generational talent,and pairing him with Lindor gives the Mets a potent 1-2 punch. But to truly contend, you need depth throughout the lineup, and Alonso provides that power, that consistency, that heart and soul of the team.losing him would be a big blow.
Moderator: Absolutely. The article mentions some financial hurdles standing in the way of a new deal. As someone who played in New York and understands the pressures involved, how do you think the Mets should approach these negotiations?
Edgardo Alfonzo: It’s a tough balance. You want to reward yoru stars, but you also have to be mindful of the long term, avoid crippling contracts. This is where ownership needs to step up, show commitment.
Demonstrating a willingness to invest in Alonso sends a powerful message—not just to him but to other players,showing they are building something special for the future.
Moderator:Alonso’s 2024 season wasn’t ”peak Polo Alonso.” Do you think that might be playing into the negotiation deadlock, and should the Mets be prioritizing a proven track record over one slightly lower-output year?
Edgardo alfonzo: Look, every player has down years. Alonso was still durable, hitting 34 home runs. Those numbers can’t be ignored. The Mets know what he can do. They need to focus on the potential for him to bounce back, to be the force we know he can be. He’s only 29! Prime years are still ahead. This isn’t about past performance alone, it’s about investing in the future.
Moderator: This definitely affects the Mets beyond just the field. Their fanbase is passionate, they want to see a winning team but also feel a sense of loyalty towards homegrown players like Alonso.
Edgardo Alfonzo: this is true. Mets fans are some of the best in baseball. They are ready to roar for a winner. But they also appreciate loyalty, that connection with their team. Losing Alonso, after sacrificing for him, would be tough to swallow. It sends the wrong message about the franchise’s direction.
Moderator: It’s a critical moment for the Mets organization. They’ve made a bold move with Soto, but keeping Alonso is crucial.what advice would you give to Steve Cohen and the front office as they navigate this critical juncture?
Edgardo Alfonzo: Don’t underestimate the importance of continuity. This team has potential, yes, but building something lasting takes more than just talent. It takes chemistry,loyalty,a sense of shared purpose.alonso embodies those qualities. Don’t let him walk away.
We want to hear from you! Do you think the Mets should break the bank for Alonso? Let us know in the comments! And be sure to join us next week when we dive deeper into the Soto acquisition and what it means for the National League East!
