Yankees predicted to sign $84M rival free agent, replace Paul Goldschmidt, impact Ben Rice's future

Hunter Cookston

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Yankees predicted to sign $84M rival free agent, replace Paul Goldschmidt, impact Ben Rice's future image

The New York Mets had one of the worst endings to a regular season in recent MLB history. The collapse was unprecedented and difficult to explain—there was simply no reason for it to be as disastrous as it was. To make matters worse, franchise star Pete Alonso may now be on his way out in free agency.

“Playing for this organization, this city—they've continued to believe in me. I love playing here. There's some great guys in this clubhouse, some great people on the staff. Every single day, it's been a pleasure coming to work and putting on the orange and blue. I've really appreciated it and have been nothing but full of gratitude every single day. Nothing is guaranteed, but we'll see what happens—I've loved being a Met. Hopefully, they've appreciated me the same,” Alonso told the media.

Throughout the season, Alonso consistently avoided confirming any long-term future with the Mets, which has only fueled speculation. One of the more eye-opening predictions? A potential move across town to the New York Yankees—in what would be viewed as a revenge-style move after last offseason’s bidding wars.

“A year after the Mets pulled Juan Soto away from the New York Yankees, Brian Cashman will return the favor this MLB offseason. Pete Alonso will step in as the replacement for Paul Goldschmidt, adding even more power to a Yankees’ lineup that led MLB in home runs (274) this season. While there are a few better options available in MLB free agency—Alex Bregman and Munetaka Murakami—the short-term deal will appeal to the Yankees’ front office and provide a bit of financial flexibility to go after a top starter. Pete Alonso contract prediction: 3 years, $84 million with a 2028 player option,” Sportsnaut’s Matt Johnson wrote.

Such a move would send Mets fans into absolute chaos. Alonso has been with the team his entire career—and if he signs with the Yankees, he could be viewed by Mets fans the way Cleveland fans once viewed LeBron James after his first departure.

Alonso is expected to chase a big contract this offseason, but he may also be chasing wins. And if winning is the priority, the Yankees might offer a more compelling path forward than the Mets.

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Hunter Cookston

Hunter Cookston began his career as a sportswriter for the Marion Tribune, where he covered local high school football, basketball and baseball. His passion for sports started at the age of four when he played his first year of tee ball. Growing up in Tennessee, he developed a deep love for the Tennessee Volunteers and Atlanta Braves. Hunter is currently attending Tennessee Wesleyan University, where he is pursuing a BA in Sports Communications/Management.