The New York Mets are retooling the roster for 2026.
The New York Mets are entering a pivotal offseason that will shape their trajectory over the coming years. They are coming off an extremely disappointing 2025 campaign that saw them collapse in the second half and miss the postseason.
Last Sunday, the Mets made their first major move, acquiring second baseman Marcus Semien from the Texas Rangers in exchange for long-tenured outfielder Brandon Nimmo.
The deal shores up the infield but leaves the outfield as a clear area of need. That is not necessarily a bad problem to have, given the number of high-profile outfielders available in free agency.
Among the names drawing the most attention are Kyle Tucker and Cody Bellinger, both of whom could provide the kind of impact bat and defensive versatility New York needs to rebound in 2026.
However, the Mets do have their own big free agent in Pete Alonso, the franchise’s first baseman for the past seven years. The 30-year-old right-handed slugger is also an unrestricted free agent, and fortunately Mets general manager David Stearns sent a message regarding the team’s plans in free agency.
According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, Stearns said the Mets have the ability to not only retain Alonso and All-Star closer Edwin Diaz, who is also a free agent, but also add a proven bat in the outfield.
“The most encouraging thing out of David Stearns’ Zoom call with writers was Stearns answering ‘sure’ as to whether it’s possible the Mets could do all three of these things: bring back Edwin Diaz and Pete Alonso as well as add a big outfielder. Trading Brandon Nimmo is only the first hint the Mets will react strongly to their disastrous 83-win season. Cody Bellinger looks like a better Mets fit now that Nimmo has been traded. If they bring back Alonso (things feel much more positive this year than last), Bellinger could enhance the 1B situation by giving Alonso a DH day,” reported Heyman on Thursday.
Alonso had an incredible year for the Mets in 2025, becoming the franchise’s all-time leader in home runs with 264. He posted a .272 batting average, a .347 on-base percentage, an .871 OPS, 38 home runs and 126 RBIs across 162 games. He played every game for the second straight year, proving his durability, and he remains a fan favorite in Queens.
Whether Alonso stays or departs, his decision will shape the Mets’ identity and competitive outlook for years to come.
