Pete Alonso and 3 other Mets who can earn themselves a big pay increase with a strong 2023 season

2) NY Mets designated hitter Daniel Vogelbach can hit his way toward a bigger deal

Daniel Vogelbach had a $1.5 million option for this year and is arbitration eligible next year. More consistent hitting this season with the Mets could go a long way toward Vogelbach getting rewarded with a bigger contract next season. Arbitration dollars always tick upward. How high it goes will depend on Vogelbach’s performance.

The Mets do have an easy “out” with Vogelbach if he doesn’t perform. Non-tendering or trading him isn’t impossible. They may not be the ones who end up giving him a raise even if he is able to produce on the field this season.

In what will be his final chance to earn money prior to free agency, the end total for Vogelbach could easily double up to $3 million and maybe more. A monster season from him, however, still won’t put him in the same class as a guy like Pete Alonso. I don’t think anyone expects him to outperform the Polar Bear anyway.

Vogelbach could face some tough times in the future when he reaches free agency. Power hitting DHs don't always get paid a ton unless they’re among the very best sluggers in the game. This year with the Mets is Vogey’s opportunity to show he can be one of them.