Mets’ Pete Alonso Open to DH Role in 2026

The future of Pete Alonso and the New York Mets is still one of baseball’s most intriguing storylines. After he opted out of the final year of his Mets contract following a stellar 2025 season, Alonso’s journey took a surprising turn.

Last winter’s free-agent market didn’t go the way he hoped, so he ended up back in Queens on a short-term deal. Now, with fresh contract talks underway, there’s a ton of speculation: will the Mets keep their cornerstone slugger, or will another franchise swoop in for one of the game’s premier power hitters?

Pete Alonso’s Market Value and Defensive Concerns

Alonso’s return to the Mets was a practical move after a free-agent winter that just didn’t deliver the long-term, lucrative deal he wanted. His bat is still one of the most feared in the league, but the Mets have some doubts about his defense at first base.

That’s led to more chatter about using him as a designated hitter. Both Alonso and his agent Scott Boras seem open to it, especially if it means playing for a contender.

Transition to a Potential DH Role

Moving Alonso toward more DH duties could stretch out his career and let him focus on what he does best—mash baseballs. For the Mets, it eases the defensive headaches while keeping his home run power in the lineup.

Of course, this shift might affect his market value. He’d likely appeal more to teams that want raw power instead of defensive versatility.

Contract Negotiations: Early Signs of Positivity

This year, contract talks between the Mets and Alonso sound a lot less tense than last season’s public drama. Both sides know what he brings to the table, even if his defense isn’t perfect.

Still, they’ve got to find a deal that fits the team’s long-term plans and Alonso’s career goals. That’s always easier said than done.

Why the Mets Still Make the Most Sense

Alonso’s open to other markets, but he knows New York. He gets the fans, the clubhouse, and the media circus.

His history of clutch moments in Queens just makes the case stronger for keeping him as the Mets’ offensive anchor heading into a new era.

Potential Suitors Beyond New York

If the Mets don’t lock him up, plenty of teams could chase Alonso. His combination of power, consistency, and willingness to DH makes him interesting for both contenders and teams in transition.

• Boston Red Sox – Could make a move if Alex Bregman leaves, but prospects like Triston Casas and Bryce Eldridge complicate things.
• Baltimore Orioles – They’d love Alonso’s right-handed power in a lefty-heavy lineup, though pitching is their bigger need.
• Seattle Mariners – Desperate for offense, so Alonso could be a real game-changer there.
• San Diego Padres – You never count them out when it comes to big moves.
• Pittsburgh Pirates – Trying to speed up their rebuild, so Alonso’s bat would be a stabilizing force.
• Miami Marlins – Close to home and in need of a marquee hitter, so maybe they’re a dark horse.

Alternative Options for the Mets

If Alonso walks, the Mets know replacing him won’t be easy. Japan’s NPB has some intriguing names, like Munetaka Murakami and Kazuma Okamoto.

Both are young, power-hitting corner infielders who could bring some fresh energy—and maybe even a little international buzz—to the roster.

Free-Agent First Base Landscape

On the MLB free-agent side, you’ll find names like Josh Naylor, Ryan O’Hearn, Paul Goldschmidt, and Rhys Hoskins. They’re all solid, but none offer Alonso’s blend of youth, star power, and top-tier slugging.

It really shows just how rare a player like Alonso is in today’s game.

The Road Ahead

The Mets have a huge decision looming. Should they invest big in their longtime power anchor, or look for younger bats instead?

Alonso’s open attitude about the DH spot adds some much-needed flexibility. Still, his price will match his reputation as one of the game’s top sluggers.

Letting Alonso walk? That could sting, both in the lineup and at the box office.

Right now, Mets fans can at least relax a bit—talks are still happening, and things seem less tense than before.

Will those talks end in a long-term deal or a split? Honestly, who knows. But it’ll be one of the most talked-about stories when the next offseason hits.

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Here is the source article for this story: Pete Alonso Open To Some DH Time In 2026