Fans have been anticipating the offseason when the Seattle Mariners finally show some financial muscle. Could this be the winter they make a headline-grabbing move?
While the Mariners’ lineup now features some power, led by major league home run leader Cal Raleigh, their overall offensive firepower still lags behind American League heavyweights like the New York Yankees and Toronto Blue Jays.
To close the gap and truly contend with the league’s elite, Seattle might look to lure one of the top sluggers from the National League once free agency begins this winter.
Mariners linked to Mets star Pete Alonso
New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso is headed to free agency for the second straight winter—but this time without the restrictions of a qualifying offer. That means the Mariners—or any team—could make a serious pitch for the five-time All-Star without risking draft-pick compensation if he signs elsewhere.
On Thursday, New York Post insider Jon Heyman named the Mariners among the top potential landing spots for Alonso, who became the Mets’ all-time home run leader earlier this season with 259 homers.
“He’s having an excellent year and can’t receive another qualifying offer. Would the Mets go long now?” Heyman wrote. He also listed the Red Sox, Yankees, Astros, Rangers, and Angels as possible fits.
Alonso has reportedly enjoyed his time in New York, so any team hoping to sign him will likely need to outbid the Mets. Last winter, the Mets hesitated to offer Alonso a near nine-figure contract—a fact that could play in favor of teams willing to go big this offseason.
Seattle already has a free-agent first baseman in Josh Naylor, but Alonso has outperformed him offensively every year. For a Mariners team aiming to cement its contender status over the next several seasons, Alonso could be the marquee addition that makes a statement.
