Mets could replace Pete Alonso with $95M postseason hero known for iconic playoff moments

The New York Mets appear headed for a split with first baseman Pete Alonso this offseason, ending his long tenure in Queens. Throughout the season, Alonso consistently avoided committing to his future with the club.

“Playing for this organization, this city — they've continued to believe in me. I love playing here. There's some great guys in this clubhouse, some great people on the staff. Every single day, it's been a pleasure coming to work and putting on the orange and blue. I've really appreciated it and have been nothing but full of gratitude every single day. Nothing is guaranteed, but we'll see what happens — I've loved being a Met. Hopefully, they've appreciated me the same,” Alonso told the media.

If Alonso departs, one name the Mets could pursue aggressively is Josh Naylor, the Mariners’ postseason hero who’s coming off a breakout season.

“Negotiations between Alonso and the Mets significantly dragged last winter as Alonso's market cratered. While the Mets would like to keep Alonso, there are few alternatives on the open market. If agent Scott Boras decides to take his time sifting through offers from interested teams hoping to secure at least six guaranteed years for Alonso, the Mets could proactively pivot to signing Josh Naylor instead,” SI’s Mike Phillips wrote.

The Mets could make a strong push for Naylor, but prying him away from Seattle may not be easy. His teammate J.P. Crawford made that clear after the Mariners’ ALCS run.

“We talked about it, but that’s all I’m going to say,” Crawford told the media after the ALCS, per Adam Jude of the Seattle Times. “He loves Seattle. I love being his teammate. He’s one of the smartest baseball players I’ve ever played with. He’s a great guy … (and) a great fit.”

Naylor would bring a much-needed power bat to the Mets’ lineup, filling the offensive void Alonso would leave behind. His energy, clutch hitting, and clubhouse presence could make him an ideal fit in New York.

If the Mets can’t land Naylor, though, they’ll face a significant roster dilemma heading into next season. For now, Naylor might just represent New York’s best hope to replace Alonso’s production and leadership.

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