Why Mets must re-sign Pete Alonso this offseason

Alonso’s 2025 campaign stands as a powerful testament to his enduring excellence and market value. The 30-year-old first baseman delivered a monster season, slashing .272/.347/.524 with 38 home runs, 126 RBIs, and an .871 OPS across all 162 games. His 126 RBIs ranked second in the National League behind only Kyle Schwarber, while his 41 doubles tied for the NL lead with Matt Olson.

Perhaps most importantly, Alonso became the franchise’s all-time home run leader in August when he surpassed Darryl Strawberry’s longstanding record of 252 homers. With 264 career home runs in just seven seasons, Alonso accomplished what took Strawberry eight full seasons and 144 fewer games to achieve. This historic milestone represents more than just statistical achievement—it symbolizes Alonso’s place as the face of Mets baseball and his deep connection to the organization and its fanbase.

The power metrics underlying Alonso’s performance were equally impressive. According to Statcast, he ranked in the top five percent of the league in average exit velocity, barrel percentage, and hard-hit percentage, taking significant leaps in all three categories from the previous year. This data suggests his 2025 performance wasn’t fluky but rather a return to his elite power-hitting form.

Leadership and Clubhouse Presence Cannot Be Replaced

Beyond the impressive statistics lies an equally valuable asset that cannot be easily quantified or replaced: Alonso’s leadership and clubhouse presence. Multiple teammates and observers have consistently praised his character and influence within the organization. As one teammate noted, “He is probably an all-time great clubhouse guy”. This sentiment reflects Alonso’s role as a unifying presence in what has sometimes been a fractured clubhouse environment.

Alonso’s leadership extends beyond mere popularity among teammates. His understanding of the New York sports scene and connection with Mets fans has been evident since his rookie season. He has consistently made himself available to media, understanding it as “a direct line to the fans,” and has embraced his role as a franchise cornerstone. This type of genuine leadership and franchise loyalty is increasingly rare in modern baseball and represents tremendous value to an organization.

The Mets have struggled at times with clubhouse chemistry and leadership in recent seasons, making Alonso’s stabilizing presence even more crucial. While the team has talented young players like Francisco Lindor who can grow into leadership roles, losing an established veteran presence like Alonso would create a significant void in the team’s culture and identity.

The Cost of Replacement vs. Retention

From a pure baseball operations perspective, replacing Alonso’s production would prove both difficult and expensive. The free agent first base market offers limited alternatives, with most available options representing clear downgrades in both production and upside. External replacements would likely require similar financial commitments without Alonso’s proven track record of success in New York or his established leadership qualities.

The Mets’ internal options, while promising, remain unproven at the major league level. Mark Vientos and Brett Baty have been taking repetitions at first base as contingency plans, but both are primarily third basemen with limited experience at the position. Vientos has played just 14 games at first base in his career compared to 129 at third, while Baty has never logged a single professional inning at first base. Converting either player to first base full-time represents a significant gamble with uncertain outcomes.

Moreover, the young players who would theoretically benefit from Alonso’s departure have shown inconsistency in their development. Both Vientos and Baty have struggled with consistency, posting disappointing offensive numbers and requiring more time to reach their potential. Rushing them into expanded roles by removing an established veteran presence could potentially hinder rather than help their development.

Pete Alonso represents more than just his impressive offensive statistics—he embodies the heart and soul of Mets baseball. His historic achievements, proven leadership, and deep connection to the franchise make him irreplaceable in ways that extend far beyond traditional baseball metrics. While the financial commitment required to retain him will be substantial, the cost of losing him—both in terms of on-field production and organizational identity—would be far greater.

The Mets organization has invested heavily in building a championship contender, most notably with Juan Soto’s record-setting contract. Allowing their homegrown franchise leader to walk away would send the wrong message to both the remaining roster and the fanbase about the organization’s commitment to winning. In a market where established veterans with Alonso’s track record and leadership qualities are increasingly rare, the Mets must prioritize retaining the player who best represents their franchise values and championship aspirations.

Re-signing Pete Alonso isn’t just good business—it’s essential for maintaining the continuity and leadership necessary for sustained success in New York.