Pete Alonso’s first foray into free agency didn’t go as planned.
The New York Mets first baseman does rejected a seven-year, $158 million extension through the 2023 season in hopes of a more lucrative payday on the open market. Instead, he returned to Queens on a two-year deal worth $54 million guaranteed, with an opt-out clause after the first year.
Alonso had a bounce-back season in 2025, posting a .272/.347/.524 batting line in 709 plate appearances, hitting 38 home runs and a National League lead of 41 doubles. It was hardly a surprise when Mike Puma of the New York Post reports this that Alonso will terminate his contract after this season.
New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso is hoping for a different outcome in free agency
Alonso is also reportedly aiming high again when he hits the open market. Poema reported this that Alonso wants at least seven years in his next contract. He had been projected to get a seven-year contract during the 2024-2025 offseason before his market all but disappeared.
While Alonso had a better year offensively, some of the same questions from his previous foray into free agency remain. He is limited defensively to first base and has not been an asset there. Alonso cost the Mets seven runs in first place in 2025, while leading major league first basemen with 10 errors.
Alonso may not be a first baseman much longer either. He will turn 31 this offseason, with his desired seven-year contract locking him up through his age-37 season. That’s a long-term and likely costly commitment for a player who may primarily be a designated hitter for the foreseeable future.
There is another factor that Alonso has no influence on. The current collective labor agreement expires after the 2026 season a prolonged labor stoppage is expected by the Players Association. Teams may not want to match Alonso’s desired price tag with an uncertain financial landscape beyond next year.
New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso is hoping for a different outcome in free agency this season. Instead, he may experience deja vu as he waits for a new contract.
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