Pete Alonso had to settle for a two-year deal worth $54 million when he re-signed with the New York Mets in free agency this past offseason. The result comes from a disappointing year in which he posted a .459 slugging percentage — the lowest of his career.
It also didn’t help that Alonso is entering his age-30 season while playing a devalued defensive position at first base. However, Alonso has a player option following this season, meaning he can opt out of his contract after the year.
It was a calculated bet on himself. Alonso hoped that by producing at a high level, he could secure a more lucrative deal. After missing out on a $100 million-plus contract in the offseason, he’s now projected to land an even bigger payday after a career-best start to the 2025 MLB season.
Pete Alonso Headed for a Big Payday
As of May 6, Alonso is hitting .349 with nine home runs and 33 RBIs in just 36 games. For context, his previous career-best batting average was .262.
The Mets first baseman has improved his plate discipline, posting a 15.0% strikeout rate (down from 24.7% last year) and a 15.6% walk rate (up from 10.1% in 2024).
Alonso is also putting up elite batted ball metrics, highlighted by a 20.8% barrel rate, which ranks in the 98th percentile, according to Baseball Savant.
This has led MLB analysts like Jeff Passan to project a big payday for Alonso. In a recent ESPN article, Passan predicts Alonso will secure a $100 million-plus deal this offseason. Even though he’s a 30-year-old first baseman, a power hitter who limits strikeouts still holds strong market value.
Alonso’s decision to bet on himself is clearly paying off.
Which Team Will Pete Alonso Play for in 2026?
Alonso is likely to opt out of his current deal in search of a bigger payday, meaning the Mets will have to negotiate again if they want to retain him. The last round of talks was a drawn-out process, so it will be interesting to see how this plays out.
With Vladimir Guerrero Jr. off the market after his contract extension with the Toronto Blue Jays, Alonso will be the top first baseman available in free agency. The Mets had previously been linked to Guerrero, but with that option no longer possible, they may pivot toward bringing back Alonso.
The Mets have been aggressive spenders under Steve Cohen’s ownership, so they remain the most likely landing spot.
Another potential suitor could be the Blue Jays, who were reportedly finalists for Alonso last offseason. But that was when Guerrero’s future was still uncertain. Now that he’s re-signed, it’s unclear if Toronto will be in the market for another big-name first baseman.
Wherever Alonso winds up, one thing is clear: it will be a lucrative contract.