In the final days of the regular season and the postseason, Pete Alonso was able to work his magic and keep the Mets in the game. However, in the NLCS game against the Dodgers, the magic was gone, and the Mets lost, potentially ending Alonso’s time with the team. Despite this, Alonso expressed his love for being a New York Met and representing the city and Queens. He had a solid performance in what could be his final game as a Met, reaching base three out of five times.
Alonso, who has been with the Mets since being drafted in 2016, has become a beloved player and a key part of the team. He had a breakout rookie season with 53 home runs and has continued to be a prolific hitter since then. Alonso’s leadership both on and off the field has endeared him to fans and teammates, making him an important part of the team. The Mets will now have to consider their options regarding Alonso’s future with the team as he enters free agency.
There are both on-field and sentimental reasons for the Mets to try and retain Alonso, whose power has been a rare asset for the team. He ranks third in franchise history with 226 home runs, and a return could mean breaking records set by players like Darryl Strawberry. Alonso’s impact on the team and fan base has been significant, making him a valuable asset that the Mets may want to hold onto. However, concerns about his age and future performance may influence the team’s decision.
Alonso had a mixed season with a strong postseason but slightly subpar regular season numbers. Questions about whether this is a sign of decline or just a temporary dip in performance will need to be addressed by both Alonso and the Mets front office. If the Mets choose not to retain Alonso, they may look for external replacements or consider moving third baseman Mark Vientos to first base. The decision regarding Alonso’s future will be a significant one for the Mets.
Teammates like Brandon Nimmo recognize the importance of Alonso to the team and fan base, expressing a desire to see him stay with the Mets. However, they also understand the business aspect of the game and the decisions that need to be made. Alonso himself reflected on the 2024 Mets team, acknowledging the unique bond and experiences they shared throughout the season. The future for Alonso and the Mets remains uncertain, but for now, they celebrate the memories made during the season.
Ultimately, the Mets will have to weigh the impact of losing Alonso against the potential risks and benefits of keeping him. Alonso’s leadership, power, and impact on and off the field make him a valuable player for the team. However, concerns about his age and performance may lead the Mets to explore other options. The decision regarding Alonso’s future will be one of the many significant choices the Mets will face in the upcoming offseason. Until then, Alonso and the team will cherish the memories and experiences of the 2024 season.
