The New York Mets ended a lengthy free agency period by signing Pete Alonso to a two-year, $54 million contract, which includes a player option for the second season. Given his strong start, Alonso is expected to opt out and pursue a more lucrative long-term deal.
Alonso currently leads all of Major League Baseball in RBIs and tops the National League in both doubles and on-base percentage. Perhaps most notably, he’s hitting .328 with nine home runs—an unexpected offensive surge. According to Athlon Sports’ Jon Conahan, the Philadelphia Phillies could be a potential landing spot for Alonso if he hits the open market.
Conahan noted that signing Alonso might require the Phillies to shift Bryce Harper back to the outfield or install Alonso as their full-time designated hitter. With Kyle Schwarber potentially departing in free agency, Alonso could serve as his replacement.
“Depending on Alonso’s contract demands, bringing back Schwarber might make more sense,” Conahan added. “But calling Schwarber the better player now, especially with Alonso still just 30, wouldn’t be accurate.”
Spotrac estimates Alonso could command a six-year, $186 million contract. While the Mets have the financial resources, especially after committing $765 million to Juan Soto, they may hesitate to invest long-term in an aging power hitter like Alonso.
If the Phillies were to sign Alonso, it would add a dramatic new element to their rivalry with the Mets—one where Alonso could haunt his former team for years to come.
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