5 NY Mets free agent signings they should make whether they land Juan Soto or not

How long can Juan Soto drag this out? Okay, so maybe it’s not his fault. Super agent Scott Boras is the one holding the MLB world hostage as bidding for his client winds down and exhausted New York Mets fans can finally get an answer.

Regardless of whether or not Soto signs with the Mets or not, the team should aggressively pursue these three other free agents.

1) Pete Alonso

It was never a matter of Soto OR Pete Alonso. The two play different positions and as expensive as the pairing will be, the Mets have a necessity to add two bats to their lineup. They shouldn’t have to choose between one or the other. With or without Soto, Alonso is their best option at first base.

First, there’s what Alonso can bring to the team. There isn’t a better power hitter out there in free agency than Alonso. Familiarity helps the team already know what they’re getting into. 

Secondly, Alonso doesn’t have the same qualifying offer penalties others will carry with them. Soto is worth losing draft picks and international money to add. Was Willy Adames worth losing two draft picks and more to sign? What about Alex Bregman, Anthony Santander, Christian Walker, and other perceived Alonso alternatives for the middle of the order?

A lineup with Alonso hitting behind Soto, whether directly or with Mark Vientos between the two, has been the dream situation for the ball club. The Mets will have the option to pivot toward a better defensive third baseman with Vientos at first base, but I wouldn’t be so quick to make such a transaction.

Soto or not, the Polar Bear should wear orange and blue once again in 2025 and for the rest of his career.