Four-time All-Star outfielder Juan Soto signed with the New York Mets this offseason for 15 years and $765 million, marking the highest-paying contract in sports history. The move shocked many, as Soto also had a mega offer on the table from his former team, the New York Yankees.
Not only did the Mets sign the biggest check, but they sold Soto on the idea that they would be contenders for years to come. After losing in the National League Championship Series last season to the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Mets looked to load up once again for a run at the World Series trophy.
While he is new to the Mets, Soto made an impact on their offseason moves, including the $54 million re-signing of Pete Alonso.
Per ESPN’s Jorge Castillo, Soto said, “That was one of the essential parts of the discussion, who was going to bat behind me? I told them the best option was (Alonso).”
It seems like Soto made an excellent choice. So far, in 12 games this season, Alonso has accumulated 0.8 bWAR while slashing .333/.451/.667 for a 1.118 OPS. He has also added three homers and 15 RBIs.
It may be cold, but Pete's red hot 🔥 pic.twitter.com/SdzEGPPmqA
— New York Mets (@Mets) April 8, 2025
Last offseason, Alonso resigned with the Mets on a two-year, $54 million deal. While this was far from the longterm deal he wanted, it does allow him to reenter free agency after this season via an opt-out.
The Mets may need to break the bank to keep Alonso in New York while also protecting Soto in the lineup.
This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.
