As many have expected, Pete Alonso has opted out of his contract with the New York Mets to become a free agent. He tested free agency last season but decided to sign a two-year deal and stay in New York.
He will be one of the best first basemen on the open market and will get a good amount of attention from other teams. He could be in store for a big contract with some insiders around the sport projecting him to receive a deal for six or seven years, hovering above $175 million.
It would take a big bag to bring Alonso back to the Mets. And with the holes they have, especially in the pitching department, they could use that money elsewhere.
Mets could look internally to replace Pete Alonso after slugger opts out
While the Mets would love to have Pete Alonso back, chasing him may not be their best bet. According to Sports Illustrated's Zach Pressnell, he views Mark Vientos as a great option to replace the five-time All-Star.
"Corner infielder Mark Vientos is the easy option to replace Alonso. Sliding Vientos from third base to first base full time wouldn't cost the Mets anything and it would allow the front office to chase other players. The Mets need to get some pitching in the offseason. Starting pitching will likely be their top priority. If they can't afford a solid first baseman, moving Vientos over might not hurt."
Vientos would not be an option that would excite the fanbase, but it makes sense. This would allow them to chase a starting pitcher or two during free agency and bolster their rotation.