Mets Should Pursue $24 Million Batting Champ as Pete Alonso Pivot, Analyst Says

The New York Mets and free agent first baseman Pete Alonso appear to be at a standstill in negotiations. While there is optimism across baseball that both the team and player will eventually agree on a new contract, there’s still a chance he won’t return to Queens.

If that happens, could president of baseball operations David Stearns look for a stopgap solution at first base by making a trade with the Tampa Bay Rays for Yandy Díaz? The 33-year-old right-handed hitter slashed .281/.341/.414 with 14 home runs, 31 doubles, 65 RBI and 55 runs scored through 621 plate appearances in 2024. However, he’s just one year removed from a breakout performance for Tampa.

Díaz was a 2023 All-Star and won his first Silver Slugger Award while leading the league in hitting thanks to a .330 batting average. His performance ultimately helped him finish sixth in American League MVP Award voting, as well. The infielder is nearing the end of his current contract, so the Rays could be looking to ship him away in a trade.

Sports Illustrated Joe Najarian thinks it would be a worthy idea for the Mets to explore if negotiations with Alonso break down.

“In the end, a trade for Díaz would be the Mets’ best option if they choose to move on from Alonso, especially given the lack of available talent at the position right now,” Najarian wrote. “However, this trade is merely a short-term solution due to Díaz’s age and contract, and New York would then need to pursue (Munetaka) Murakami or (Vladimir) Guerrero Jr. as long-term solutions next offseason. If they don’t plan on those pursuits, then a reunion with Alonso would be the best option.”

Díaz is entering his final guaranteed season of a three-year, $24 million deal. He’ll earn $10 million in 2025 and has a $12 million club option for 2026, according to Spotrac.

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