Alonso Opts Out; Mets Target Naylor, Murakami

Pete Alonso has informed the Mets he will opt out and test free agency after a 2025 bounce-back season in which he hit 38 homers, drove in 126 runs and posted a .871 OPS. New York’s front office, led by general manager David Stearns, is reluctant to commit long-term to the 31-year-old because of defensive shortcomings (−8 Fielding Run Value in 2025). The team has prepared contingency plans that include revisiting trade talks for Yandy Díaz, targeting free-agent or trade options such as Josh Naylor, and scouting international power prospect Munetaka Murakami. Rival clubs — notably the Yankees, Red Sox and Giants — are expected to pursue Alonso vigorously, and without a qualifying offer he should be able to seek a longer-term, higher-value deal. Alonso’s elite run production combined with his defensive liability will shape which teams make long-term offers and how much they pay.