Pete Alonso Opts Out of Mets Contract, Enters Free Agency

Slugger Pete Alonso will test the free agent market after declining his $24 million player option with the New York Mets.

Jon Heyman of the New York Post reported the move, which most people saw coming. Alonso’s short-term “pillow” contract gave him the chance to bet on himself and chase a bigger payday after a strong 2025 season.

He’s coming off back-to-back years with elite power numbers and led the NL in doubles. Honestly, he’s about to become one of the most sought-after bats this winter.

Pete Alonso’s Contract History and Opt-Out Decision

When Alonso signed his two-year deal last offseason, he and his reps wanted flexibility. He got $30 million in year one — a $10 million signing bonus and $20 million salary — with a player option for year two.

That $24 million option for 2025 is now in the rearview mirror, making the three-time All-Star a free agent. The Mets saw this coming from the start.

Alonso’s side made it clear that a big 2025 would put him in line for a longer, richer contract. He never planned to settle for a short-term fix if he could help it.

Statistical Surge in 2025

Alonso’s 2025 numbers backed up his gamble. He hit .272/.347/.524 with 38 home runs, and he led the National League with 41 doubles.

That’s a big leap from his 2024 season, where he hit .240/.329/.459 with 34 homers. This year put him back in the conversation as one of MLB’s top run producers.

He won’t have a qualifying offer tied to him, since league rules allow only one per career. That makes him an even more attractive target, since teams won’t lose draft picks to sign him.

The Competitive Free Agent Market

The 2025-26 offseason looks crowded with slugging first basemen. Alonso sits near the top, but he’s not alone:

• Kyle Schwarber – Lefty power bat, can DH or play corner outfield.
• Munetaka Murakami – Japanese star who’ll draw a lot of eyes internationally.
• Josh Naylor – Contact hitter with some pop.
• Ryan O’Hearn – Quietly productive, on the rise.
• Luis Arraez – Pure hitter, can play first or second.
• Josh Bell – Switch-hitter, former All-Star.
• Paul Goldschmidt – Former MVP, still solid.
• Rhys Hoskins – Big bat when he’s on the field.

Alonso’s Market Position

Even with all that competition, Alonso’s raw power and knack for driving the ball into the gaps make him stand out. He’s durable, brings leadership, and has postseason experience.

That’s the kind of package that could convince a contender to open its wallet. Teams like the Cubs, Red Sox, or Mariners might see him as a true difference-maker.

Impact on the Mets’ Offseason Plans

The Mets have more than just Alonso’s exit to worry about. Reliever Edwin Díaz opted out too, while A.J. Minter will stick around on an $11 million option.

Starter Frankie Montas, still working his way back from elbow surgery, looks set to take his $17 million option. So, New York’s front office, led by David Stearns, has some serious holes to fill in both the lineup and the bullpen.

Losing Alonso’s bat changes the whole offensive picture. The pressure’s now on prospects and any new signings to step up and keep the Mets competitive.

What Comes Next for Alonso

Alonso now enters free agency at a prime age for a long-term commitment. He brings consistent production and a real knack for anchoring a lineup.

His agent will probably push for at least a five- or six-year deal. We’re talking annual salaries in the $25-30 million range, which is no small ask.

Fans in Queens might cross their fingers for a reunion. But let’s be honest—baseball’s business side means plenty of teams will line up, and the Mets could get priced out unless they go all-in.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Pete Alonso Opts Out Of Mets’ Contract