In recent months, there’s been abundant speculation hinting that Pete Alonso, the New York Mets’ celebrated first baseman and All-Star, might be securing his future with the Mets. However, with spring training on the horizon, it seems the scenario has shifted considerably, as it appears New York is planning to search for suitable replacement for Alonso next season.
Alonso, who plunged into the Major League Baseball’s free agency, originally hoped to secure a hefty sum of $200 million. Unfortunately, his prospective teams dwindled rapidly, positioning the Mets as Alonso’s optimal choice. MLB analysts anticipated a consensus would be drawn between the two parties. Yet, the Mets’ last offer, a three-year agreement totaling over $68 million, was declined by Alonso.
Consequently, the Mets decided to progress without Alonso, promptly addressing the vacancy in its team. Jesse Winker, the team’s outfielder, was swiftly re-signed by the Mets for a one-year contract valued at $8 million, acting as an interim solution.
Nevertheless, there exists a decorated All-Star and Silver Slugger Award recipient among the MLB free agency who is reportedly drawing the Mets’ attention. Jurickson Profar, the sought-after free agent, is currently being considered as a potential addition to the Mets.
Reports have indicated that Profar has been a point of interest for the Mets all throughout the offseason. He is seen as a valuable asset who could enhance both the team’s performance on the field and the dynamics within the locker room. Profar’s stats surely suggest as much: a batting average of .280, .380 OBP, .459 SLG, .839 OPS, 24 home runs, 85 RBIs, 10 stolen bases, and 29 doubles.
Profar, who will be turning 32 this February, had an incredibly successful stint with the San Diego Padres last season, earning his first Silver Slugger Award and All-Star accolades. He established his career-bests in several areas, with his OPS reaching .839, home runs totaling 24, and WAR summing to 3.7.
His striking surge in performance followed his move to San Diego, where he seemed to have found his rhythm. After the Colorado Rockies decided to part ways with him in 2023, Profar stepped up his game, boasting a slash line of .295/.367/.409 from 44 at-bats.
Primarily, Profar played as a left fielder last season, starting 148 games in that position. However, the Padres utilized him as a first baseman for 18 innings in the same season. He also had earlier experiences playing at first base (for 31 innings) and second base (for an inning) in 2023.
Signing Profar would strengthen the Mets’ batting line-up considerably, given his consistent switch-hitting capabilities. Profar could prove to be a flexible resource for the Mets, bringing a wealth of versatility to the team.
Given Profar’s age and the duration he has remained as a free agent, it’s feasible that the Mets can secure him with a one-year contract. Such a move would undoubtedly add depth and options to the Mets’ line-up both on and off the field.