Amazin' Daily Briefing: February 6th, 2025

The Offseason Dust Settles: Pete Alonso Is Still a Met

The missing piece has returned! After months of speculation, Pete Alonso has officially re-signed with the New York Mets on a two-year, $54 million deal. It's the move Mets fans had been eagerly awaiting all offseason, instantly solidifying the team’s status as a top contender in 2025.

The deal includes a $10 million signing bonus and a $24 million player option for 2026, ensuring that Alonso can remain a Met for at least the next two seasons. But more than just a routine re-signing, this contract brings Alonso within striking distance of Mets history—he’s only 26 home runs away from overtaking Darryl Strawberry as the franchise's all-time home run leader.

A Bargain for the Mets?

Leading into free agency, many speculated that Alonso could secure a long-term deal north of $150 million, making it shocking that the Mets landed him for just two years. Reports even indicate the Mets initially offered Alonso a three-year, $71 million deal, but ultimately, both sides agreed on the shorter arrangement.

This could prove to be a win-win scenario. The Mets avoid overcommitting financially, while Alonso bets on himself, aiming to re-enter free agency in 2025 with an even higher value. With superstar slugger Juan Soto now batting in front of him, Alonso could be poised for a career year that sets him up for a massive payday.

Mets' Offseason Moves Are a Masterclass

With Alonso back in the fold, it's clear that David Stearns has orchestrated a phenomenal offseason. The Mets have strengthened their rotation by retaining Sean Manaea, adding Frankie Montas and Clay Holmes, reinforcing their bullpen with A.J. Minter, and drastically improving their lineup by signing the generational bat of Juan Soto.

In 2024, the Mets were already a top-10 offense in baseball. Adding Soto and retaining Alonso now makes them a legitimate threat to outslug any team in the National League. If the Mets' plan continues unfolding as perfectly as it has, their pursuit of a championship in 2025 suddenly looks much more realistic.

Are the Mets Now the NL East Favorites?

The Atlanta Braves remain the biggest competition, boasting a powerhouse offense with Austin Riley, Matt Olson, and Ronald Acuña Jr. However, with an elite top-five featuring Francisco Lindor, Soto, Alonso, Brandon Nimmo, and Mark Vientos, the Mets might have the scariest lineup in the NL East.

Concerns about the starting rotation still linger. Some speculate that a blockbuster trade for Dylan Cease could be in the works. But even if the Mets stand pat, they’ve built an offense strong enough to carry them deep into October.

The Verdict

The re-signing of Pete Alonso was the final move Mets fans had been anxiously awaiting—and now it’s official. Alonso's return not only provides star power but also historic significance, as he's set to become the Mets’ all-time home run leader.

With Spring Training right around the corner, one thing is certain: the Mets mean business, and they’re coming for a World Series title in 2025.

What do you think of the Alonso signing? Are the Mets now the team to beat in the NL East? Drop your thoughts in the comments below!

On This Day in Mets History

Notable Transactions

• 1998: The New York Mets traded A.J. Burnett, Jesús Sánchez, and Robert Stratton to the Florida Marlins for Al Leiter and Ralph Milliard.
• 2008: The New York Mets signed free agent Nelson Figueroa.
• 2011: The New York Mets signed free agent Dale Thayer from the Tampa Bay Rays.

Randomly selected Met Player

Frank Viola

• Born: April 19, 1960 (Hempstead, N.Y.)
• Years with Mets: 1989 - 1991
• Games Played: 82
• Record: 38 - 32
• ERA: 3.31
• Strikeouts: 387
• Saves: 0

Trivia Question of The Day:

Who were the members of the New York Mets' inaugural broadcasting team in 1962?

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Trivia Answer (February 5th)

Pete Alonso was drafted by the New York Mets in the second round of the 2016 MLB Draft with the 64th overall pick. Before joining the Mets organization, Alonso played college baseball at the University of Florida, where he was a standout first baseman for the Gators. During his time at Florida, he was known for his power-hitting ability, helping lead the team to the 2015 College World Series.

In his final college season in 2016, Alonso hit .374 with 14 home runs and 60 RBIs, showcasing the offensive potential that would later define his professional career. His strong performance in college and during pre-draft evaluations convinced the Mets to select him, and he quickly rose through their minor league system before making his MLB debut in 2019.

Subscribe to leave comment with your answer. The answer will be posted in tomorrow's Amazin' Daily Briefing!