Vladimir Guerrero Jr. reportedly pursued by Mets as Pete Alonso's replacement amid ongoing negotiations

It has been a curious offseason for Pete Alonso, to say the least. The four-time All-Star has been one of the most prolific home run hitters, yet he remains without a contract ahead of the 2025 campaign. While plenty of time remains in the offseason, Spring Training is rapidly approaching, and Alonso will likely want to know where he will be playing sooner rather than later.

There have been several clubs linked to Alonso this offseason.; However, all signs point to a potential return to the New York Mets. Both the club and the player have expressed interest in a reunion ahead of 2025, however, there dollars and terms of the contract continue to have the negotiations in a stalemate.

Even though there has been interest in continuing the relationship between the Mets and the hard-hitting first baseman, the team also needs to be prepared for a potential future without Alonso. On Wednesday, MLB insider Andy Martino reported that the Mets have "checked in" on Toronto Blue Jays superstar Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

The Blue Jays will make a significant decision about Guerrero's future with the club. The four-time All-Star is entering the final year of his contract before becoming an unrestricted free agent. The team will either need to pay up to keep him on the squad or look to the trade market to get something instead of losing him for nothing.

Guerrero could be a massive win for the New York Mets heading into 2025. There is no denying Pete Alonso's power at the plate. However, Vladdy is not only younger than Alonso but has also been a better on-base contributor throughout his career.

If the Mets were able to acquire him in a trade, they would still need to negotiate a long-term deal if they hope to keep him around beyond 2025. That being said, given owner Steve Cohen's willingness to hand out massive contracts, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. might be able to secure the deal he wants in New York as opposed to in Toronto.

Pete Alonso has reportedly been open to a short-term deal with the New York Mets

According to MLB analyst Jim Duquette, Pete Alonso and his representatives have reportedly offered the New York Mets an offer to sign a three-year deal with the club. The deal, which would include several opt-out clauses, would bring the first baseman back to Queens on a deal that features a higher annual salary to make up for the lack of years attached.

If Alonso signs a short-term deal, he could play alongside new addition Juan Soto and see a jump in his counting stats, which could help him in future negotiations. It will be interesting to see how the offseason plays out for Alonso and his agent, Scott Boras, who has been known to hold out as long as possible before signing a deal, for better or worse.