5 NY Mets roster additions every fan should have on their holiday wish list

1) Add an impact hitter first basemen

The New York Mets, in their pursuit of a World Series title, should prioritize acquiring an impact hitter to bolster their lineup. While Pete Alonso and Christian Walker are intriguing options, a lower-impact contract with Paul Goldschmidt could also be a strategic move.

The Mets' need for an impact bat is underscored by the uncertainty surrounding Mark Vientos. While the acquisition of Juan Soto strengthened the lineup, Vientos's short MLB track record and the potential for pitchers to adapt to his hitting style necessitate a reliable power hitter to stabilize the middle of the order.

Pete Alonso stands as the primary target to fortify the Mets' lineup. Since his 2019 debut, he ranks second only to Aaron Judge in home runs and leads the league in RBIs. Alonso's proven power, even as he ages, remains a rare and valuable asset in today's MLB.

If the Mets decide to go with a short-term, defense-first deal, Christian Walker could be a necessary target. Walker put together a strong offensive season in 2024 with a sustained increase in his power, raising his hard-hit contact rate to nearly 50%, which is elite, with an expected slugging percentage above .500 on fastballs and offspeed pitches.

A potential under-the-radar target is veteran first baseman Paul Goldschmidt. Given his age, a one-year deal could be a mutually beneficial arrangement. While his overall 2024 season was inconsistent, Goldschmidt demonstrated a resurgence after the All-Star break, posting a 120 wRC+ and ranking among the top 10 first basemen in that period with a .273 batting average and .475 slugging percentage.

Ultimately, the Mets must weigh the pros and cons of each option and determine which player best fits their long-term goals. By adding an impact hitter, the Mets can significantly improve their offensive output and increase their chances of contending for a championship.