REPORT: Ideal Mets Pete Alonso Backup Plan Involves Blockbuster Trade For $52 Million Star

The New York Mets appear determined to bring slugger Pete Alonso back to Queens this offseason. Following their blockbuster acquisition of Juan Soto on a nearly $800 million deal earlier in the offseason, the Mets have bolstered their pitching staff but have yet to make another headline-grabbing move. Re-signing Alonso could provide that spark.

Jon Heyman of the New York Post projects Alonso to sign a contract worth $152 million, which seems in line with expectations. With teams like the Houston Astros, Washington Nationals, and New York Yankees likely out of the running after securing first basemen of their own, the Mets are clear favorites to retain their star.

But what if they don’t? What if another team swoops in to steal Alonso from the Mets? What would owner Steve Cohen and the Mets’ front office do next?

If Alonso signs elsewhere, the Mets would likely pivot to trading for St. Louis Cardinals star third baseman Nolan Arenado. In this scenario, New York could move Mark Vientos to first base and slot Arenado in at third. The Cardinals began exploring trade options for Arenado earlier this offseason, though his contract and no-trade clause complicate matters. However, reports suggest Arenado has cleared a trade to six teams, including the Mets.

To make a deal work, the Mets would likely absorb a significant portion of Arenado’s contract, reducing the prospect capital required in the trade.

Ultimately, Alonso is still expected to return to the Mets on a lucrative deal, leaving the Cardinals to find another suitor for Arenado. However, if a team like the Seattle Mariners unexpectedly lands Alonso, the Mets are well-positioned to pivot and bring Arenado to Queens instead.