Pete Alonso Rumors: Exec Predicts Mets Will Trade Star If They Can Get 'Real Value'
June 14, 2024
As the New York Mets sit near the bottom of the National League standings, Pete Alonso's future with the organization is a big focus leading up to the trade deadline.
One AL executive told MLB.com's Mark Feinsand the Mets will "probably" trade Alonso if they can get "real value" for him rather than wait to get draft compensation during the offseason through the qualifying offer system.
Alonso is making $20.5 million this season after avoiding arbitration in January. He's seeking a long-term deal worth at least $200 million in free agency, per USA Today's Bob Nightengale.
The value wouldn't be very good for the Mets if they wanted to try using the qualifying-offer system rather than trade Alonso.
Per MLB rules, teams that are paying the competitive balance tax receive draft pick compensation after the fourth round if a player who receives a qualifying offer signs with another team.
The Mets have the highest CBT payroll in MLB this season at $339.3 million. The tax threshold in 2024 is $237 million.
Alonso's name has been mentioned in trade rumors since the offseason, but the Mets have so far held firm in not trading the three-time All-Star. It seems like that could change as we get closer to the July 30 trade deadline.
The overall mediocrity of the NL has left the Mets in an uncomfortable position. Their 30-37 record is the third-worst in the National League, but they are only five teams with a winning record. They trail the St. Louis Cardinals (33-34) by three games for the final wild-card spot.
Nothing about the Mets' performance so far this season suggests they are a strong playoff contender, but they might convince themselves that a run is possible because the teams behind the Philadelphia Phillies, Los Angeles Dodgers and Milwaukee Brewers haven't inspired much confidence.
Alonso is hitting .233/.315/.459 with 14 homers and 32 RBI in 67 games this season.
