Mets’ Slugger Pete Alonso Secures Hefty $20.5 Million Deal, Avoids Arbitration
New York Mets’ power hitter, Pete Alonso, has successfully avoided arbitration by striking a one-year contract for the 2024 season, boasting a substantial salary increase. According to The Post’s Jon Heyman, Alonso is set to earn $20.5 million, a notable bump from last season’s $14.5 million.
Alonso delivered an impressive performance in the previous season, displaying his prowess at the plate with a .217/.318/.504 slash line, including 46 home runs and 118 RBIs. As the Mets gear up for the upcoming season, the question lingering in the air is whether Alonso will secure a new long-term contract before potentially hitting free agency next offseason.
While the looming question persists, there’s anticipation that a resolution might be reached by Opening Day. Players often set a deadline around the end of spring training for negotiations on a new contract in their walk year.
Adding an intriguing layer to the situation, Alonso enlisted super-agent Scott Boras this offseason for representation. Boras, in November, hinted that Alonso was open to discussing a new contract with the Mets, adding an element of uncertainty to the slugger’s future. However, president of baseball operations David Stearns, during a recent Zoom call, remained tight-lipped about any discussions with Boras regarding a long-term contract for Alonso.
Stearns dismissed concerns about Alonso feeling pressured by his contract situation during the season, expressing confidence in Alonso’s ability to handle such scenarios. Despite trade rumors surrounding Alonso last summer, Stearns has consistently affirmed that Alonso is expected to be the Mets’ Opening Day first baseman. Alonso, known for his impressive power with over 40 homers in three separate seasons, has expressed his desire for a long-term deal with the Mets. The unfolding months leading up to the season will reveal whether the Mets and Alonso can find common ground on a new contract.