3 players whose 2024 performance can factor into how far the Mets go to sign Pete Alonso

Pete Alonso’s dream of wearing a different uniform is starting to come true as he approaches his last season before becoming a free agent. It makes sense that the first baseman for the New York Mets would want to take advantage of his free agency and try to get the finest deal possible.

For months, supporters of the Mets have conjectured about possible future developments. Examining David Stearns’ approach to the role while he was a member of the Milwaukee Brewers only provides a limited understanding of his mindset. In New York, the circumstances are very different. One of the most well-liked players to wear the orange and blue is Alonso. Many believe that he is perfect.

The success of others will play a part in how far the Mets are willing to go in order to sign Alonso. How well these three perform in 2024 may have a big impact on whether or not Alonso is allowed to walk. What matters most in the end will be how much they believe he is worth in comparison to what he is asking for in terms of years and money as a free agent. Seeing how accessible alternatives change or become worse will also do this.

3) Brett Baty
Brett Baty, the third baseman, is located across the diamond from Alonso. What possible connection may he have to Alonso’s future in Queens?

There are three likely outcomes for Baty in 2024. The one we’re hoping for is he looks like a major league third baseman both at the plate and in the field. Nobody expects him to become a Gold Glove contender. Serviceable is more realistic. In this case, Baty won’t factor much into any Alonso decision. A lousy year offensively and defensively won’t contribute much either.

On the other hand, a huge year at the plate and an equally as bad or worse one as a defensive play may. Baty is only in the major leagues because of his proven bat at the minor league level. Although it has yet to happen nor is anyone expecting some sort of a ticking clock for it to occur, a switch over to first base is one solution to keep him in the starting lineup.

Baty has played some left field in the minors, but the Mets haven’t allowed him to roam the position at the major league level yet. With them pivoting to Harrison Bader in center field and appearing to have Brandon Nimmo in left field more permanently, we shouldn’t expect Baty to move there. First base could be a different story.