MLB Insider Makes Bold Prediction That Mets Will Trade Superstar Away
Could the New York Mets make a shocking move this offseason?
The Mets are in an interesting spot. New York has had a quietly solid offseason. The Mets haven't made a massive investment this offseason but still have improved the roster.
New York entered the offseason with multiple holes on the roster and certainly is in a better spot entering the 2024 campaign. But, the Mets have one massive question swirling around the franchise.
Superstar slugger Pete Alonso will be a free agent at the end of the 2024 season and it's unclear how much longer he will be with the club. Some have speculated that he eventually will sign an extension with the Mets while others have said a trade could be on the way.
The most likely outcome is Alonso will begin the 2024 season with New York. If the Mets struggle, maybe a deal could pop up around the trade deadline. If the Mets are solid, maybe they keep him until the offseason and attempt to re-sign him in free agency.
Speculation and rumors have been swirling about Alonso's future and it's unclear what will happen. ESPN's Paul Hembekides made a bold prediction that the club ultimately will end up trading Alonso.
"The Mets will trade Pete Alonso entering his contract year," Hembekides said. "I know, I know. Alonso is as beloved as any Met since David Wright and possesses near-unprecedented power (his 192 home runs through five seasons have him tied for third all-time). But there's a new sheriff in town and his name is David Stearns.
"In his eight seasons as Brewers GM, Milwaukee used seven different Opening Day first basemen, including Ryan Braun (2018) and Keston Hiura (2021), both of whom converted to the position. In other words, Stearns has never prioritized first base. Unless owner Steve Cohen intervenes, Stearns will be more inclined to trade Alonso than extend him, capitalizing on a market devoid of bats like his."
Alonso has grown into a fan-favorite in New York. If the club were to trade him, it would be devastating to the fan base. Hopefully, the two sides will be able to agree to a new deal.
