Pete Alonso’s future with the New York Mets is suddenly clouded with uncertainty following a shocking financial development tied to his massive new contract. The star first baseman, long seen as the face of the franchise and a fan favorite in Flushing, signed a two-year, $54 million deal that not only reset the market for his position but also placed the Mets under considerable financial strain. With a player option to opt out after the 2025 season, the deal could end up being a short-term arrangement with long-term implications for the Mets’ front office and fans alike.
Alonso’s 2025 salary is set at $30 million, the highest one-year figure ever awarded to a first baseman in Major League Baseball history. Add in a $10 million signing bonus and $14 million for the 2024 season, and it becomes clear that the Mets are paying a premium to retain their homegrown slugger — at least for now. However, because the team is already exceeding MLB’s top competitive balance tax tier, known colloquially as the “Cohen Tax” (named after owner Steve Cohen), the financial burden is significantly amplified. With luxury tax penalties tacked on, Alonso’s total cost to the Mets in 2025 is projected to be around $62.1 million.
This eye-popping figure has sent shockwaves through both the front office and the fan base. While Alonso remains a vital piece of the Mets’ offense — his power numbers remain elite, and his OPS ranks near the top of the league — the team’s overall payroll and competitive outlook are under intense scrutiny. Currently pushing toward the $325 million mark, the Mets’ payroll is the highest in baseball, but that hasn’t yet translated into postseason success. And with Alonso potentially hitting free agency after 2025, the pressure is on to make a deep playoff run sooner rather than later.
For Alonso, this deal is both a bet on himself and a signal to other teams. If he continues to perform at an elite level, he could opt out and command an even larger payday in free agency. For the Mets, it’s a calculated risk, hoping that their centerpiece will stay committed beyond the 2025 season or that a championship window will open in time to justify the immense cost. If not, the team could find itself stuck with a bloated payroll and no long-term control over its biggest star.
Ultimately, this “$35 million shock” isn’t just about money — it’s about what it means for the future of the franchise. Alonso is more than just a power hitter; he’s a clubhouse leader and a beloved figure in New York. If the Mets can’t build a contender around him quickly, or if they hesitate to extend him again, fans may soon see the end of an era. For now, Alonso’s bat remains hot, but his future in Flushing has never felt more uncertain.
Do you think the Mets should try to extend him long-term or prepare for a possible trade?
