The thrill of this MLB hot stove season — and the shadow looming behind it

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After one of the most thrilling World Series in recent memory — or ever, really — and the first repeat champion in a quarter-century, get ready to savor something else you might not see for a while: a fun MLB offseason.

It began in earnest on Monday. As the Dodgers celebrated their title in Los Angeles after finishing off the Blue Jays in Toronto on Saturday, a handful of players triggered opt-out clauses to enter free agency.

Some, such as Pete Alonso, were never really in question. The Mets first baseman hits the open market for a second straight year coming off a much better season. As reported by The Post’s Mike Puma, he is said to be seeking a seven-year deal.

Other notable opt-outs that were considered likely included Cody Bellinger, who helped the Yankees win 94 games in his first season in The Bronx after his arrival in a trade from the Cubs to help offset the loss in free agency of Juan Soto.

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