The New York Mets watched the National League get even tougher when the Boston Red Sox traded Rafael Devers to the San Francisco Giants. However, it may affect them directly next winter.
Pete Alonso returned to the Mets on a two-year, $54 million deal that includes an opt-out after the season. Alonso is having a great year at the plate and will likely opt out and find a better deal in free agency. His power was never a question, but he is hitting .293 and showing shades of his rookie season. FanSided’s Tim Boyle suggested that the Red Sox could steal Alonso in free agency now that they do not have to pay Rafael Devers’ contract.
“Devers going to the Giants might make them less likely to pursue Pete Alonso in free agency,” wrote Boyle. “What about the Red Sox? First base has been a problematic position for them and not just because of the injury to Triston Casas. A figurative destination for Alonso last offseason but not a truly rumored place for him to end up, the extra payroll wiggle room can change this.
“The more competition there is for Alonso, the worse off the Mets will be at retaining him. After all, one of the biggest reasons they were able to keep him was because so few teams got in on the bidding.”
The Red Sox need at first base and sudden financial flexibility makes them a prime candidate for Alonso. Spotrac projects Alonso to earn a four-year, $123 million deal in free agency.
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The four-time All-Star is having one of his best seasons offensively, and the Mets will try to keep him around. However, they were unwilling to give him a longer deal last year. He has only gotten older and more expensive. Meanwhile, the Red Sox will be desperate to make moves that surround their young core with stars.
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