Pete Alonso hoping second time is the charm in free agency

Pete Alonso's first foray into free agency did not go as planned.

The New York Mets first baseman had turned down a seven-year, $158 million extension during the 2023 season, hoping for a more lucrative payday on the open market. Instead, he returned to Queens on a two-year deal worth a guaranteed $54 million, containing an opt-out clause after the first year.

Alonso had a bounce-back season in 2025, posting a .272/.347/.524 batting line in 709 plate appearances, hitting 38 homers and a National League leading 41 doubles. It was hardly surprising when Mike Puma of the New York Post reported that Alonso will opt out of his contract after the season.

New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso hoping for a different result in free agency

Alonso is also reportedly aiming high again when he hits the open market. Puma reported that Alonso is looking to receive at least seven years in his next contract. He had been projected to receive a seven-year contract during the 2024-25 offseason before his market virtually disappeared.

While Alonso had a better year offensively, some of the same questions from his previous foray into free agency remain. He is limited to first base defensively and has not been an asset there. Alonso cost the Mets seven runs at first in 2025 while leading major league first basemen with 10 errors. 

Alonso also may not be a first baseman for much longer. He will turn 31 years old during the offseason, with his desired seven-year deal locking him in through his age 37 season. That is a long, and likely costly, commitment to a player who may primarily be a designated hitter in the near future. 

There is also another factor outside of Alonso's control. The current CBA will expire after the 2026 season, with a protracted labor stoppage expected by the Players' Union. Teams may not want to match Alonso's desired price tag with an uncertain financial landscape after next year.

New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso is hoping for a different result in free agency this offseason. Instead, he may experience deja vu as he waits for a new contract.