"If Pete Alonso performed like Juan Soto or Aaron Judge, he would be breaking the bank" - MLB analyst rejects 'owners collusion' fan theory

There's a rumor circulating that the MLB owners are possibly colluding regarding first baseman Pete Alonso's free agency. A fan called on the WFAN show, hosted by MLB analysts Brandon Tierney and Sal Licata, on Friday to expand further on the same.

The fan, identified as "Frank," argued that owners are happy to pay Type A free agents who sell tickets and jerseys, but intentionally suppress the market for Type B, C, and D players, telling them to "take your glove and go home."

Frank also referenced superstar Juan Soto’s comments during contract negotiations. Soto, who later signed a 15-year, $765 million deal, had said his priority was securing the highest possible salary because it would set a precedent for other players. According to Frank, owners are tired of paying hefty arbitration prices for players they consider less valuable.

However, in response, Licata rejected this theory and said:

"If Pete Alonso performed like Juan Soto or Aaron Judge, he would be breaking the bank like those guys did. Teams have gotten smarter. I'm with you, BT—I don’t think this is a collusion thing. I think teams have gotten smarter." [12:05]

"Why would you go out there and overpay for somebody who is going to start declining rather quickly? Or, we don’t know exactly when it’s going to happen with people, but he’s coming off two big years already. What, do you think all of a sudden he’s going to find the Fountain of Youth and get better? He’s just not that good."

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Latest report tying a reunion between Mets and Pete Alonso

It has been a roller coaster free agency for Pete Alonso, who is waiting to sign a long-term contract this offseason.

The Mets, who were thought to have moved on from the first baseman after splurging on the bullpen pitchers, are predicted to sign Alonso on a six-year deal, according to Just Baseball's Ryan Finkelstein.

"Contract Prediction: Six years, $140 million," Finkelstein said. "Team Prediction: New York Mets."

The report should bring a smile back on Mets fans who hope Alonso returns to Queens and helps them win the World Series in 2025.