The New York Yankees have addressed their need at first base, securing five-time Silver Slugger Paul Goldschmidt on a one-year, $12.5 million contract on Saturday. This move rules out four-time All-Star Pete Alonso as an option for the Yankees.
With the Yankees filling their vacancy, the New York Mets are now positioned as favorites to re-sign Alonso during the offseason. Although teams like the Washington Nationals could benefit from a first-base upgrade, Alonso has been widely expected to remain with one of the two New York franchises.
This offseason marks Alonso’s first time exploring free agency after six years in the league. Spotrac estimates his market value at approximately $242 million over seven years. Despite Mets owner Steve Cohen recently committing $765 million to superstar outfielder Juan Soto, his financial resources should allow him to outbid other teams for Alonso.
With Goldschmidt and Arizona Diamondbacks’ four-time Gold Glove winner Christian Walker no longer options, bringing back Alonso seems like the Mets’ best course of action. Alternatives such as former Yankees first baseman Anthony Rizzo or ex-Twins slugger Carlos Santana could save the Mets money, but Cohen’s ambition to deliver a World Series title to Queens—only the third in the team’s history—may make re-signing Alonso a top priority. The popular first baseman is seen as a cornerstone for the Mets’ championship aspirations.
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