5 offseason predictions for the Mets

2) The Mets won't extend Pete Alonso and the conversation goes on hold

Not every prediction is going to be a good one. In this case, it has to do with Pete Alonso and his contract situation. There’s a whole lot of uncertainty about where he fits into the Mets’ plans. It makes sense only to keep him. But what if he wants a ridiculous amount of money not even Steve Cohen will sign off on paying?

Alonso won’t get traded this offseason, but he also won’t have a new contract. The conversation will go on hold and this story about what happens next with Alonso is going to grind against our hearts for the entirety of the 2023 season.

Alonso changing agents and selecting Scott Boras was a big sign of his willingness to test free agency. He probably will and even if he does there’s a good chance he remains with the Mets. Let’s not forget Brandon Nimmo was cut loose last season only to return in early December on his brand new deal.

It’s not terribly uncommon for contract negotiations, as obvious as the solution may seem, to drag out. The Mets aren’t the only guilty ones. The New York Yankees let Aaron Judge get to free agency without an extension. Alonso will make it through at least this offseason without a new deal. As for arbitration, the two sides will come to an agreement and there won’t be too much bad blood.