After an impressive postseason with the New York Mets, first baseman is poised to hit free agency when the MLB offseason officially kicks off in a few weeks. While the Mets are likely to try to keep him, the four-time All-Star will attract numerous offers on the open market, with the Seattle Mariners expected to be among his suitors.
After two disappointing seasons, the Mariners have a crucial offseason ahead. While their main focus will be hiring a new manager, they will also be looking closely at the free-agent market throughout the winter.
Now seems like an opportune moment for the Mariners to make a significant signing. Their starting pitching rotation has been among the best in the league over the past two years, but an underperforming offense has hindered their success. Strengthening the lineup should be a top priority for Seattle this offseason.
Although Juan Soto will dominate the headlines in MLB free agency until he signs, He will also be a sought-after name throughout the winter. A bidding war for Alonso is expected, as he is represented by Scott Boras, who will be managing multiple high-profile clients, including Soto and Corbin Burnes.
Boras’s clients typically follow the money, often opting for the highest offer. If that holds true for Alonso, it appears the Mariners will need to be prepared to make a competitive offer. Will they be willing to go all out to secure his signature?
Extra year gives Mariners true cleanup hitter
Money often plays a crucial role for free agents negotiating with multiple teams, and it’s hard to fault players for wanting to maximize their earnings. After all, not everyone would turn down a few million dollars.
This situation might apply to Pete Alonso as he navigates discussions with various teams. As long as the Mets remain in the mix, Alonso is likely to be upfront about the terms of his next contract. If his priority is to go with the highest bidder, that simplifies matters for the Mets and any other interested teams. However, if the duration of the contract becomes a sticking point, it could lead to teams dropping out.
Many projections suggest Alonso will secure a six-year deal exceeding the $162 million Freddie Freeman received before the 2022 season. Some analysts believe he is aiming for a $200 million contract, which would position him as the second-highest-paid first baseman in terms of total contract value.
While it seems logical for Alonso to return to the Mets, a team that makes a strong effort for him could present an offer he can’t refuse. Unless he considers a hometown discount, the Mets would need to be the top bidder. The question remains whether they would be willing to offer a seventh year if another team is willing to do so.
On paper, this seems straightforward, but not every owner is inclined to pay a 36-year-old first baseman at least $30 million. Nonetheless, this is a route the Mariners should consider if they’re serious about competing soon.
Historically, the Mariners haven’t been big spenders in free agency. The most significant contract general manager Jerry Dipoto has given out was a five-year, $115 million deal to starting pitcher Robbie Ray in 2021. After consecutive playoff-less seasons, Dipoto needs to make a significant signing to bolster the Mariners’ offense, and a guaranteed 30-homer bat would be a valuable addition.
It’s clear why the Mariners are reportedly interested in Pete Alonso; their offense has struggled with power. Few players are as adept at hitting home runs as Alonso.
This season, the Mariners ranked 25th in slugging percentage but were sixth in the AL (12th overall) for home runs with 185. Despite this, they were 21st in runs, averaging 4.1 per game.
Alonso’s power stats over the past four years are among the best, averaging 39 home runs and 108 RBIs since the start of the 2021 season, with a .499 slugging percentage and .835 OPS during that time.
He would fit perfectly into the cleanup spot for the Mariners, providing crucial protection for Julio Rodriguez. After a disappointing season, Rodriguez needs a revival in 2025, and having Alonso behind him could alleviate some pressure as he prepares for a comeback.
Although the Mariners’ stadium isn’t particularly favorable for hitters, Pete Alonso has the raw power to hit home runs anywhere. He would quickly become a fan favorite in Seattle, provided he delivers on his performance expectations.
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