Overview
- Both stars became free agents Monday after exercising opt-outs, voiding $24 million for Alonso and $48 million for Díaz, with each previously expressing interest in returning.
- The Mets hold a short exclusive window to negotiate before free agency opens Thursday at 5 p.m. ET, with no indication a deal is imminent.
- Qualifying-offer dynamics diverge: Alonso is ineligible while Díaz can be offered the $22.02 million QO, which must be decided by Nov. 18.
- Díaz’s market is buoyed by a rebound season featuring 28 saves and a 1.63 ERA over 62 appearances.
- New York also faces eight other free agents and early offseason decisions, including reported interest in Boston pitching executive Justin Willard and potential trade pursuits such as Tigers ace Tarik Skubal.