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Pete Alonso Hits Free Agency Again as Mets Map Pitching-First Offseason

The opt-out forces New York to balance a pitching-first plan with the cost of keeping its top bat.

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MIAMI, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 27: Starling Marte #6 of the New York Mets prepares to bat against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot park on September 27, 2025 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Calvin Hernandez/Getty Images)
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - SEPTEMBER 25: Pete Alonso #20 of the New York Mets hits a double during the first inning against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field on September 25, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Geoff Stellfox/Getty Images)
MIAMI, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 27: Pete Alonso #20 of the New York Mets walks back to the dugout after the final out of the seventh inning against the Miami Marlins at loanDepot park on September 27, 2025 in Miami, Florida. (Photo by Calvin Hernandez/Getty Images)

Overview

  • Alonso declined his $24 million 2026 salary to re-enter free agency after a career-best .272 average with 38 home runs and 126 RBIs.
  • Defensive metrics placed him near the bottom of MLB in 2025, prompting widespread expectations he could shift more toward designated hitter duties.
  • Mets president David Stearns said he wants Alonso back and signaled the team will assess options as the offseason unfolds.
  • Reports identify the Red Sox, Yankees and Phillies as realistic suitors, though contract length and positional fit remain uncertain.
  • Beyond Alonso, the Mets face numerous free agents, have starting pitching marked as the top priority, Jeff McNeil cited as the most feasible trade chip, and Starling Marte voicing interest in staying.