The New York Mets may consider trading their top player for what seems like a questionable return from the Seattle Mariners. If the team’s losing streak persists, significant roster changes could be on the horizon as the trade deadline approaches. Pete Alonso’s contract situation remains unresolved, making him the primary candidate to be traded.
Opting not to retain Alonso for the long term raises doubts about the Mets’ front office decisions. Despite his imperfections, like any other baseball player, Alonso has demonstrated unwavering loyalty during challenging periods and has consistently performed well throughout his six-year career.
35 games into the 2024 season, Alonso has already amassed 200 career home runs, a notable achievement considering the shortened 57-game season due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Throughout his career, the Florida native has consistently showcased his power, hitting at least 37 home runs in every full season played, with notable seasons including 53, 46, and 40 homers.
While trading Alonso may seem questionable on multiple fronts, it remains a possibility that cannot be overlooked. If the alternative is losing him for nothing, trading him becomes the pragmatic choice.
In a proposed trade by Jim Bowden of The Athletic, the New York Mets would send Alonso to the Seattle Mariners in exchange for Emerson Hancock and Ty France.
France, a former All-Star first baseman, has seen a decline in performance, posting a 99 OPS+ in 2023 and a current 92 OPS+ in 32 games this year.
Hancock, a right-handed pitcher, was selected sixth overall in the 2020 MLB draft. Making his debut in 2023, he started in nine games and recorded a 4.68 ERA and 1.30 WHIP across 42 1/3 innings.
Despite Alonso potentially serving as a rental for any acquiring team, the proposed return may appear underwhelming for one of the premier power hitters in baseball. However, it reflects the challenging reality of many trade scenarios.
