After contract negotiations with Pete Alonso’s camp hit an impasse, the New York Mets began considering a pivot away from re-signing the star first baseman, people familiar with the situation said.
League sources said the Mets most recently offered Alonso a straight three-year deal, which was rejected. Previously, Alonso’s camp offered the Mets a three-year deal with opt-outs. As of Thursday morning, hurdles still existed between the two sides.
Earlier on Thursday, The Athletic reported that the Mets are in active talks with other players and it would be difficult to fit Alonso into their plans if they strike a deal in other pursuits, a person familiar with the Mets’ plans said.
The Mets then made their next move.
New York reached an agreement with outfielder/designated hitter Jesse Winker on a one-year deal, league sources said. Winker figures to serve in a role similar to the one he held last year after the Mets acquired him at the trade deadline.
If the Mets continue down the road of pivoting from Alonso, look for them to spend more money on their bullpen. Lefty Tanner Scott lingers in free agency as the best available (and most expensive) option in the reliever market.
In a world where Alonso doesn’t play first base for the Mets, the club could stick with an internal solution by moving Mark Vientos from third base. In such a scenario, other young players such as Brett Baty, Luisangel Acuña and Ronny Mauricio would be given a stronger shot at playing time at third base.
Alonso remains available. But, as The Athletic reported Thursday, other teams, including the Toronto Blue Jays, are engaged in discussions with him.
(Photo of Alonso: Al Bello / Getty Images)
