Mets Prepare For Pete Alonso Free Agency, Seek Japanese Replacement

Albert Pujols, following his retirement as a player in 2023 and current roles managing in the Dominican Professional Baseball League and for the Dominican Republic national team, is being considered as a potential next manager for the Los Angeles Angels amid their managerial vacancy. Meanwhile, New York Mets' first baseman Pete Alonso, a key power hitter and franchise record holder, recently signed a two-year, $54 million contract with a player option for 2026 but is expected to opt out and enter free agency due to his strong 2025 performance, which has increased his market value significantly. The Mets face the prospect of losing Alonso and are already exploring replacements, with Japanese slugger Munetaka Murakami, a highly decorated hitter in the NPB and standout in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, emerging as a prime candidate. Additionally, the New York Yankees have shown interest in Alonso as a free agent option if they decide to move on from current first basemen, though Alonso's expected high market value may influence their decision. Murakami's impressive hitting metrics, including a 432-foot home run in the WBC Championship, underscore his potential as a major league impact player and viable successor to Alonso in New York.