Why Pete Alonso Deserves Better From New York Mets Baseball

My memo-

No Loyalty in Baseball: The Pete Alonso Saga

In the ever-evolving landscape of Major League Baseball, loyalty often feels like a relic of the past. Today’s players are no longer defined solely by their dedication to one team; instead, they’re often caught in the crossfire of big-market owners, sky-high contracts, and front-office gambles. This brings us to the curious case of Pete Alonso, the New York Mets’ powerhouse first baseman who, after years of leading the team’s offense, finds himself on the brink of free agency and seemingly left out in the cold.

Pete Alonso: A Pillar of the Mets

Pete Alonso has been nothing short of sensational since his debut with the New York Mets in 2019. From the moment he stepped onto the diamond, Alonso embodied what it means to be the heart and soul of a franchise. His rookie season alone set the tone: 53 home runs, 120 RBIs, and the National League Rookie of the Year award. Over the years, Alonso has consistently anchored the Mets’ lineup, leading by example with his power, resilience, and unflinching commitment to the game.

In a team known for its ups and downs, Alonso has been a rare constant. His contributions—both on and off the field—have given Mets fans hope through challenging seasons. And yet, as Alonso approaches free agency, the Mets’ front office seems to be eyeing bigger, shinier targets instead of securing the cornerstone they already have.

The Juan Soto Gamble

One name dominates the Mets’ off-season discussions: Juan Soto. The superstar outfielder has been hailed as the Babe Ruth of this era, and team owner Steve Cohen reportedly dangled an eye-watering $800 million to lure him. While Soto’s immense talent and potential are undeniable, this pursuit raises a critical question: what about Pete Alonso?

Cohen and the Mets’ decision-makers appear to be betting the farm on Soto delivering historic numbers year after year. But baseball history is littered with cautionary tales of teams placing all their chips on a single player, only to watch the gamble fall short. There’s no guarantee that Soto will live up to the astronomical expectations attached to his contract.

Meanwhile, Alonso—who has proven himself time and again—is left in limbo, a glaring oversight by a team that owes much of its recent success to his bat.

A Message to the Yankees

If the Mets fail to retain Alonso, the New York Yankees have an opportunity to swoop in and capitalize. Unfortunately, they, too, seem to have gone in a different direction. The Yankees, traditionally known for their bold moves and knack for acquiring marquee players, missed the chance to secure Alonso.

This decision could haunt them. Alonso plays with a chip on his shoulder, and any team that brings him in is likely to see him perform at an elite level. His work ethic, power at the plate, and ability to deliver in clutch moments make him a perfect fit for the Yankees’ storied tradition. Letting him slip away could be one of their biggest missteps in recent memory.

The Mets’ Potential Mistake

For the Mets, the stakes are clear. Allowing Alonso to walk in free agency would be a monumental error. Despite their fixation on Soto, they must recognize Alonso’s unique value—not just in terms of his offensive production but also as a leader and fan favorite.

Baseball isn’t just about numbers; it’s about loyalty, chemistry, and the intangible qualities that make a team more than the sum of its parts. Alonso embodies those qualities, and the Mets would be wise to reward his dedication and excellence.

A Warning for Baseball

The saga of Pete Alonso is a microcosm of a larger issue in modern baseball: the erosion of loyalty. As teams chase the next big star or the largest contract, they risk alienating the very players who built their success. Baseball is a business, but it’s also a game rooted in tradition, loyalty, and the bond between a player and their team.

The Mets and Yankees both had opportunities to show that loyalty still has a place in the sport. Whether they recognize it before it’s too late remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: Pete Alonso, wherever he ends up, will continue to play with heart, grit, and something to prove.

My Bottom Line-

For now, baseball fans can only watch and wonder—has loyalty truly become a thing of the past? Or will a team step up and remind us all of what makes this game so special?

?