As the New York Mets kicked off spring training in Florida with their first official workout for pitchers and catchers, they also finalized a major contract extension with one of their cornerstone players. Star first baseman Pete Alonso officially signed a two-year, $54 million deal on Wednesday, securing his place in Queens for at least the next two seasons.
The agreement, which had been reached in principle last week pending a physical, includes a $10 million signing bonus and annual salaries of $20 million in 2025 and $24 million in 2026. However, Alonso retains the option to opt out after the 2025 season, potentially testing the free-agent market once again.
Mets Owners and Front Office Express Excitement
“We’re excited to welcome Pete back to Queens,” Mets owners Steve and Alex Cohen said in an official statement. “He is a homegrown talent who is adored by our fanbase.”
President of baseball operations David Stearns echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing Alonso’s significance to the team.
“Pete is a great Met and one of the league’s elite power threats,” Stearns said. “I’m thrilled that we reached an agreement, and I’m looking forward to watching Pete help anchor our lineup.”
Alonso’s Legacy and Contract Incentives
Alonso, who turned 30 in December, has been a consistent force for the Mets since making his MLB debut in 2019. Over his six-year career, the slugger has become one of the most feared power hitters in the game, leading the majors in RBIs (586) during that span. His 226 career home runs already rank third in Mets history, trailing only franchise legends David Wright (242) and Darryl Strawberry (252).
His new contract includes several lucrative incentives, rewarding individual and team success:
$200,000 bonus for winning the National League MVP
$150,000 for finishing second, $50,000 for finishing third
$150,000 for a World Series MVP award
$100,000 for an NLCS MVP honor
$100,000 for each of the following: Gold Glove, Silver Slugger, All-Star selection, or being named to an All-MLB first or second team
Alonso’s Recent Performance
Last season, Alonso hit .240 with 34 home runs and 88 RBIs, posting a career-low .788 OPS while striking out 172 times. However, he remained a crucial part of the Mets’ success, appearing in all 162 games and delivering in clutch moments. One of his biggest highlights came in the postseason, when he crushed a three-run homer off Milwaukee Brewers closer Devin Williams in Game 3 of the Wild Card series, propelling the Mets to the NLCS.
Alonso burst onto the scene in 2019 as the National League Rookie of the Year, setting a MLB rookie record with 53 home runs while driving in 120 RBIs. He followed that up with a career-best 131 RBIs in 2022, further solidifying his reputation as one of the game’s premier sluggers.
Mets Re-Sign Injured Reliever Drew Smith
In addition to Alonso’s contract, the Mets also re-signed right-handed reliever Drew Smith to a one-year deal with a club option for 2026. The 31-year-old underwent Tommy John surgery last July and is expected to miss most—if not all—of the 2025 season. If he successfully recovers, the team envisions him returning as a key bullpen piece in 2026.
Smith, who has spent his entire career with the Mets, posted a 1-1 record with a 3.06 ERA in 19 appearances last season before his injury. Over his six-year MLB career, he holds a 12-13 record with a 3.48 ERA and five saves.
As a result of his injury status, Smith, along with fellow right-hander Christian Scott, was placed on the 60-day injured list. Scott is also recovering from Tommy John surgery and is not expected to return until 2026.
Mets Likely Moving On from Jose Iglesias
One player who appears unlikely to return to the Mets roster this season is veteran infielder José Iglesias. The 35-year-old was a valuable contributor last year, both on and off the field, but David Stearns suggested the team is prioritizing younger infielders in 2025.
“Where we are now, for that role on our team, it’s important for us to keep some avenues open for our younger players,” Stearns said. “We think it’s important for us to have some roster flexibility with that spot.”
With Alonso locked in at first base and a mix of young talent competing for infield spots, the Mets are taking a strategic approach to roster construction heading into the new season.
Alonso’s Market and Comparisons to Other First Basemen
Alonso’s contract comes after a longer-than-expected free agency period, as he remained unsigned while several other first basemen found deals earlier in the offseason. Comparatively, Christian Walker secured a three-year, $60 million deal with the Houston Astros, while veterans Paul Goldschmidt (New York Yankees) and Carlos Santana (Cleveland Guardians) both settled for one-year contracts.
Despite the wait, Alonso ultimately secured a strong short-term deal with an opt-out after 2025, giving him the chance to reassess his market value in a year’s time.
Looking Ahead
With Alonso’s contract now finalized, the Mets can shift their focus toward spring training and preparing for another competitive season. While injuries to key relievers like Drew Smith present challenges, the team is optimistic about the younger talent stepping up. Alonso will remain the face of the franchise, and if he delivers another high-powered season at the plate, he could be in line for an even bigger payday next winter.
BREAKING NEWS: Mets finalize BLOCKBUSTEE Pete Alonso deal, makes major Jose Iglesias decision
