Pete Alonso Exits Mets Contract
Pete Alonso has officially opted out of his contract with the New York Mets, according to a report by Jon Heyman from the New York Post. The first baseman declined a $24 million player option, marking his return to free agency. Alonso had previously hinted at this decision after the season concluded.
Pete Alonso’s Contract and Performance Overview
This decision was anticipated. Alonso’s two-year contract was structured to enable him to enter free agency after this season. In the previous year, he earned a total of $30 million, consisting of a $10 million signing bonus and a $20 million salary.
Last season, Alonso had an impressive performance, batting .272 with a slugging percentage of .524. He achieved 38 home runs and led the National League with 41 doubles over 709 plate appearances. However, his 2024 season was less remarkable, seeing him hit .240 with 34 home runs.
Free Agency Landscape for Alonso
Alonso now aims for a long-term contract that eluded him last year. He will likely rank among the top power hitters available. He is expected to be positioned behind Kyle Schwarber and possibly NPB superstar Munetaka Murakami in the free agent market.
- Pete Alonso – Free agent first baseman
- Kyle Schwarber – another leading power bat
- Munetaka Murakami – NPB star expected to attract interest
- Other free agent first basemen include:
- Josh Naylor
- Ryan O’Hearn
- Luis Arraez
- Josh Bell
- Paul Goldschmidt
- Rhys Hoskins
Mets’ Ongoing Decisions
Alonso’s opt-out is one of three significant options decisions faced by the Mets. Edwin Díaz is also opting out, while A.J. Minter has exercised his $11 million player option as he recovers from lat surgery. The Mets are awaiting a decision from Frankie Montas, who is expected to lock in his $17 million player option after undergoing elbow surgery in August.
Mets management is also considering options for Brooks Raley, with a choice between a $4.75 million contract or a $350,000 buyout, and Drew Smith’s $2 million option.
