Key Takeaways:
– Rumors indicate that the New York Mets might trade three-time All-Star, Pete Alonso.
– Alonso is considered a desirable trade option since he has played in at least 152 games annually since 2019.
– Several other players, including Sean Manaea, J.D. Martinez, Luis Severino, Harrison Bader, Adam Ottavino, Jose Quintana, or Jake Diekman, could also be traded by the Mets.
– This strategic move could be in preparation for the Mets to potentially acquire Juan Soto in the offseason.
Increased Trade Activity Expected for New York Mets
Despite having the highest payroll in baseball, the New York Mets are reportedly being eyed as potential heavy hitters in the trade market. Various general managers predict an imminent trade involving three-time All-Star, Pete Alonso, ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported on June 4.
Given Alonso’s current salary of $20.5 million and the minimal benefit the Mets would receive by letting him sign free agency, such a trade seems inevitable. However, this raises questions about the Mets’ strategy, especially considering their less than stellar performance this season.
Assessing the Mets in the Current Season
After 62 games this season, the Mets’ performance is not living up to their lofty payroll. While the team is lagging in the National League with a 27-35 record, this still places them only three games shy of a Wild Card spot. This leaves a question hanging in the air – should the Mets seize this opportunity or look to the future with a major in-season restructure.
Despite the undesirable season record, there is still hope for a turnaround. Nonetheless, if their performance doesn’t improve, the Mets may decide to capitalize on the trade market.
Pete Alonso: The Ideal Trade Option
Alonso’s record makes him a valuable trade, especially since he declined a seven-year, $158 million extension with the Mets last year. His current contract expires after this season, making him a viable half-year rental for other teams aiming to contend.
Alonso’s reliability enhances his attractiveness. He has remained mostly healthy throughout his major-league career, hitting a staggering 40 or more home runs in each of the last two seasons. Despite a slight decrease in hard contact from 47.7% in 2021 to 40.1% this year, Alonso’s consistent power-hitting in a pitcher-friendly park keeps him desirable.
Possible New Home for Alonso
The Athletic’s Jim Bowden predicted that Alonso could remain with the Mets even if traded, as he’s expected to sign back with them in the offseason. However, several teams could be contenders in the Alonso trade. Whether it’s the Astros, Mariners, Guardians, Twins, or even the Yankees, numerous franchises might jump at the chance to snag this seasoned slugger.
Other Mets Players on the Trading Block
Despite Alonso headlining the possible outgoings at the Mets, there are several other names that could be on their way out. Speculations include potential trades involving players like Sean Manaea, J.D. Martinez, Luis Severino, Harrison Bader, Adam Ottavino, Jose Quintana, or Jake Diekman.
A Possible Bid for Juan Soto
This trading frenzy could be part of a bigger plan, involving a reported bid for Juan Soto in the offseason. Mets president of baseball operations, David Stearns, might be preparing a substantial effort to bring Soto to Queens, despite Soto’s recent forearm injury that forced him out of a game against the Twins.
If the Mets aim for such a high-profile transfer, it could even stretch their substantial spending, pulling another ace from their already extravagant payroll. Whether this is a strategic decision that will pay off remains to be seen, but it’s a move that highlights the ambitions of the New York Mets.