Could the Mets have traded first baseman Pete Alonso before this past trade deadline? It appears that was something that could have been on the table, according to one report.
The New York Post’s Mike Puma stated this was possible before the deadline. Puma mentions that Alonso was someone the Mets “dangled” at the deadline with other players that were eventually dealt. However, a deal for the Mets’ star first baseman was not close at any time. This was due to the reportedly high asking price and unknown willingness to deal Alonso.
If the Mets would have received an offer good enough to deal Pete Alonso, it would have signaled an entirely different direction than that championed by new owner Steve Cohen. Cohen has been vocal about spending money and putting a team together to compete for a World Series title. Trading Alonso after moving Justin Verlander, Max Scherzer, and a few others would indicate something more substantial than the soft rebuild they are currently in position for. While it would not be a total teardown, it would be closer to it rather than further from without Alonso.
Pete Alonso has one more year of arbitration before becoming a free agent. This was the driving force behind entertaining any offers about his availability. The Mets, driven by Cohen, will attempt to sign Alonso long-term. But it was the uncertainty of a deal being agreed to which led to this development.
The Mets would be wise to move forward with Pete Alonso on their roster. Alonso is a special talent that makes the team better. Having this type of player under contract for a considerable amount of time would help solidify the foundation of their team moving forward.
