Amazin' Daily Briefing: Februart 1st, 2025

Pete Alonso’s Future: Will the Mets Re-Sign Their Slugger or Make a Blockbuster Move?

For New York Mets fans, all eyes are on their star first baseman, Pete Alonso. With contract negotiations still in flux, the question remains: Will the Mets bring back their homegrown power hitter, or is a blockbuster trade—perhaps with the Tampa Bay Rays—on the horizon? Let’s dive into the latest speculation, potential scenarios, and what it all means for the team’s 2025 outlook.

The Pete Alonso Question: Is a Deal Close?

Few players represent the Mets as much as Pete Alonso, and the uncertainty surrounding his future looms large. Reports from insiders like Bob Nightengale, Andy Martino, and Jon Heyman indicate that Alonso wants to stay in New York. While the Toronto Blue Jays reportedly showed interest, Alonso has turned them down, signaling his preference for a deal with the Mets.

So why hasn’t the contract been finalized? It appears both sides are engaged in high-stakes negotiations, with Alonso hoping the Mets will increase their offer. Momentum seems to be building, with some reports suggesting an announcement could come as soon as this weekend. Mets fans are holding out hope that the “Polar Bear” remains in Queens.

What If Pete Alonso Leaves?

Despite optimism surrounding Alonso’s return, the Mets’ front office is exploring backup plans. Reports suggest they’ve been scouting alternative first base options, including the Orioles’ Ryan Mountcastle and the Tigers’ Spencer Torkelson. But the most intriguing name in the mix? Tampa Bay Rays infielder Yandy Díaz.

Díaz, a player the Mets have monitored since the trade deadline, brings a mix of versatility and offensive firepower. In 2023, he posted an impressive .330/.410/.519 slash line with 22 home runs. While his numbers dipped slightly in 2024, Díaz remains a valuable asset with two years of affordable team control left on his contract.

Could the Mets Land Both Alonso and Díaz?

Even if Alonso re-signs, the Mets could still pursue Díaz. Why? Depth. As they prepare for 2025, the team is focused on building a more flexible and potent lineup. Díaz could slot in as a Designated Hitter (DH), adding balance and consistency to the offense.

However, one major hurdle stands in the way: Starling Marte’s contract. The Mets have reportedly explored trade options for Marte, but moving his salary has been difficult. If they find a trade partner, the financial flexibility could make an Alonso-Díaz duo a legitimate possibility.

Three Possible Outcomes

1. Alonso Re-Signs: The Mets lock in their star slugger, and Díaz discussions fade.
2. Alonso Leaves: The Mets pivot aggressively toward Díaz or another first baseman like Mountcastle or Torkelson.
3. Alonso & Díaz Together: The Mets pull off a blockbuster move—but only if they offload Marte’s contract.

Why Yandy Díaz Could Be the Key to 2025

While Alonso’s fate is the headline story, the potential addition of Yandy Díaz shouldn’t be overlooked. With a high on-base percentage and a team-friendly contract, Díaz offers the kind of flexibility and value that championship contenders crave. If the Mets can pair him with Alonso, they could build one of the most dangerous lineups in the National League.

What’s Next?

As the offseason progresses, Mets fans eagerly await clarity. Alonso’s decision will shape the team’s 2025 strategy, but the front office’s interest in Díaz and other contingency plans suggests they are prepared for multiple scenarios.

So, Mets fans, what do you think? Will Alonso stay in Queens? Should the Mets pursue Díaz regardless?

On This Day in Mets History

Born on This Date

• 1970 – Joe Vitko
• 1972 – Rich Becker
• 1987 – Austin Jackson
• 1992 – Sean Manaea

Transactions on February 1

• 2002: New York Mets claimed Endy Chávez off waivers from the Detroit Tigers.
• 2007: Oakland Athletics signed Ricky Ledée (previously with the Mets) as a free agent.
• 2007: New York Mets signed free agent Jesús Feliciano.
• 2008: Kansas City Royals signed Brian Lawrence (previously with the Mets) as a free agent.
• 2013: New York Mets signed free agent Marlon Byrd.
• 2021: New York Mets traded Federico Polanco to the Miami Marlins for Jordan Yamamoto.
• 2024: Cleveland Guardians signed Carlos Carrasco (previously with the Mets) as a free agent.

Random Player Spotlight

James McCann

June 13, 1990 Santa Barbara, CA

Years with Mets: 2001-2002

182 Games. 13 HR, 64 RBI, 0.220 avg, 48 Runs, 4 SB

Also played for:

• Detroit Tigers 2014 - 2018
• Chicago White Sox 2019, 2020
• Baltimore Orioles 2023, 2024

Trivia Question of The Day:

At just 17 years old, which Bronx-born player made his major league debut for the New York Mets in 1962?

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Trivia Answer (January 31st)

In the 2018 season, Jacob deGrom put together one of the most dominant pitching performances in MLB history, despite receiving minimal run support from the New York Mets' offense. He finished the year with a 10-9 record, an unusually low win total for a Cy Young winner, but his brilliance on the mound was undeniable. DeGrom posted a league-leading 1.70 ERA, struck out 269 batters over 217 innings, and had an astonishing 0.91 WHIP. His dominance was further highlighted by a streak of 29 consecutive starts allowing three earned runs or fewer, setting an MLB record. Voters recognized that traditional win-loss records did not reflect his excellence, and he was rightfully awarded the 2018 NL Cy Young Award.

Subscribe to leave comment with your answer. The answer will be posted in tomorrow's Amazin' Daily Briefing!