Preparing for a potential future without slugger Pete Alonso, the New York Mets are emphasizing versatility in their lineup. Rising stars Brett Baty and Mark Vientos, both established at third base, have been tasked with learning first base to add flexibility. This shift reflects the Mets’ proactive approach—whether as a contingency plan or just a precaution against an uncertain future.
Mark Vientos, known for his adaptability, has already started making the transition. Per the New York Post, Vientos has been working with manager Carlos Mendoza and infield coach Mike Sarbaugh on drills that split his focus between first and third base. The training is happening in South Florida under the guidance of Mets Single-A manager Luis Rivera.
Meanwhile, Brett Baty is expanding his own defensive repertoire, working on first, second, and third base. With Alonso’s future in New York in question, the Mets are clearly banking on homegrown talent like Baty, Ronny Mauricio, or Luisangel Acuña to step up and claim a starting role. The goal is flexibility, allowing the Mets to avoid tying up resources in positions that could be filled internally. And if the plan doesn’t pan out early in the season? The trade deadline offers plenty of opportunities to pivot.
On the West Coast, the Los Angeles Angels might see Pete Alonso as the perfect solution to their offensive struggles. Following a disastrous 2024 season, the Angels are desperate for a durable, reliable power hitter to complement Mike Trout and reignite their lineup. Alonso’s track record—consistent 30+ home run seasons, including 40+ in three of the last five years—makes him an ideal candidate.
Durability is another big selling point for Alonso, who played all 162 games in 2023 and rarely misses time. That kind of stability would be a major asset for an Angels team plagued by injuries to stars like Trout and Anthony Rendon. Adding Alonso’s offensive production could give the Angels the firepower they need to compete in the AL West.
A projected four-year, $100 million deal might seem steep, but it’s a price worth paying for the Angels. With Alonso in the heart of the order, they’d not only protect Trout but also inject the lineup with 35-40 home runs a season. If the team can stay healthy, pairing Trout with Alonso could finally deliver the winning formula that Angels fans have been waiting for.
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