With Juan Soto now off the market, Pete Alonso is one of the biggest offensive free agents available. Former Yankees coach Sean Casey believes that his value lies in his durability.
The 'Polar Bear' is now 30 and looking for an eight-year contract, which is why most teams are skeptical about signing a long-term deal with an aging player. However, Casey reckons that unlike other players who go downhill after 30, Alonso is good to go on for a while.
On The Mayor's Office podcast, Casey said that Alonso has proved to be one of the most durable players in the majors over the years. Coming off a below-average MLB season this year, the first baseman still managed 162 appearances and hit 34 home runs.
"Look at Mike Trout. ... One thing with Pete Alonso, I like the phrase the best ability is availability.
"If Alonso had a little bit of a fever at 5 o'clock, you know at 7 o'clock he's in the game. When you look at that lineup, you know Lindor and Alonso. You don't have to worry about shortstop or first base every night. You know how great that is for a manager?"
Pete Alonso was selected by the New York Mets in the 2016 MLB Draft and made his major league debut in 2019. Becoming one of the most reliable hitters in the country, he has been loyal to the Mets. Alonso has now entered free agency for the first time in his major league career and is reportedly looking for a long-term contract.
Hence, having both Francisco Lindor and Alonso in the Mets lineup is a dream for any manager, since they can relied upon to play almost every day. However, it remains to be seen if the Mets can come to an agreement with the "Polar Bear" this winter.
MLB insider reports that Nationals and Mariners are set to compete with Mets for Pete Alonso
Despite signing a record-breaking $765 million contract with Juan Soto, the New York Mets remain the favorites to re-sign Pete Alonso this winter. However, according to MLB insider Jon Heyman, the Washington Nationals and the Seattle Mariners are also interested in the infielder.
The market will heat up for Alonso in the coming days, but it remains to be seen who will come out on top to sign him.