The ongoing talks regarding Pete Alonso’s agency have emerged as the most compelling storylines of the MLB offseason period. The negotiations between the 30-year-old and the New York Mets seem stalled as there is a considerable difference between Alonso’s salary demands and the Mets’ readiness to meet his financial expectations. Although previous negotiations like those involving Juan Soto have been successfully resolved in the past, this current impasse raises uncertainties about Alonso’s future role as the key figure for the team.

Alonso’s reported demand aligns with his production. Spotrac’s valuation of a seven-year, $206 million deal places him among the game’s elite first basemen. However, the Mets appear hesitant to make that commitment, especially after Pete Alonso’s slight dip in performance during the 2024 season. Although he still delivered solid power numbers, his year was deemed “down” by his own lofty standards. The trend of declining demand for pure power hitters further complicates his case.

The Mets’ contingency plan for the base

According to The New York Post’s Jon Heyman, the Mets may pivot to internal alternatives. One contingency plan involves shifting Mark Vientos to first base and leaning on a youth movement at third, with Brett Baty or Ronny Mauricio stepping up. While such a shift would save payroll, it risks destabilizing the lineup, which has leaned heavily on Alonso’s power and leadership for years.

Pete Alonso’s love and value among fans as a player nurtured by the team weigh big in his favor. Ever since he hit 53 home runs during his rookie season in 2019, Alonso became the core of the Mets’ batting lineup and a respected figure in the clubhouse. If the team were to allow him to leave, it could upset loyal fans and create doubts about how dedicated the organization is to future competitions. For an organization with lofty aspirations, failing to retain such a critical piece would undoubtedly intensify scrutiny from fans and analysts alike.

At the same time, the Mets must be pragmatic. Committing to a long-term deal for Alonso risks locking them into a contract that might not align with their broader roster-building goals. If they believe they can replicate his production elsewhere or invest in younger, more versatile talent, the financial flexibility gained by moving on might outweigh the immediate loss.

Is Pete Alonso a victim of the declining power market?

The decrease in demand for power hitters poses a challenge for Pete Alonso as he discusses his contract negotiations. In 2024, Alonso’s performance with 46 home runs and 118 RBIs solidified his position as an elite slugger in baseball. However, his .240 batting average and decreased on-base percentage underscored his emphasis on power rather than offensive abilities. Teams are now prioritizing players who possess a mix of power, speed, multiple positions, and high contact rates—qualities that Alonso doesn’t heavily embody. This shift in priorities has tempered demand for power-only players, with sluggers like J.D. Martinez and Nelson Cruz signing smaller deals in recent years despite their prolific home run numbers.

Additionally, advanced analytics have de-emphasized home run production in favor of metrics like wRC+ and WAR, which reward well-rounded contributions. For Pete Alonso, his defensive limitations at first base and a lack of baserunning impact further complicate his case for a mega-deal. While his power remains valuable, the market’s preference for multidimensional players creates uncertainty about his long-term value—both for the Mets and any other team considering a pursuit.

Ultimately, the Mets face a pivotal decision: either redefine their roster by parting ways with Alonso or double down on his role as the centerpiece of their future. The coming weeks will reveal whether this relationship is destined to continue or dissolve.