Pete Alonso swung for a big payday and missed. At least, that’s what the critics are saying. But with his bat heating up and free agency looming, the New York Mets slugger could still turn the narrative on its head. One thing is certain: this isn’t the same first base market that made Freddie Freeman rich.

The First Base Market Has Changed Since the Freeman Deal

On the latest episode of Jomboy Media’s Baseball Today, hosts Chris Rose and Trevor Plouffe talked about Alonso’s upcoming free agency.

He is said to have turned down a seven-year, $158 million deal from the Mets in 2023, while Billy Eppler was the general manager.

Following a not-so-great free agency period in 2024, he re-signed with the Mets for two years at $54 million. His 2025 salary is set at $30 million, and he has the chance to opt out after the first year, which he’s expected to do.

Turning down the $158 million offer and signing on with agent Scott Boras was seen by some as a wrong move, considering how lackluster the first baseman market has been.

“We thought that when Alonso reportedly turned down the $158 million extension and then had to deal with a two for 54 to return to New York, where he can opt out after the first, he missed his big payday,” Rose said.

Plouffe, on the other hand, was feeling hopeful, saying that Alonso’s skills might still land him a great contract, saying, “I do think that he means the most and is most valuable to the team that he’s on. He’s a freaking slugger, man. He’s a hitter. You put guys on base in front of him, he’s going to drive them in. Every team should want this guy on their team. I got to believe some team is going to go four years, 120”

Alonso’s 2025 season has been outstanding, featuring a .349/.463/.659 line, nine home runs, and 34 RBIs. His enhanced stats, like a lower strikeout rate and high exit velocity, have really increased his value.

Rose drew a comparison between Alonso and Freddie Freeman, who signed a six-year, $162 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers at age 32, stating, “I think he is a beloved Mets [New York]. I look at it as though he’s going to make up 128 million because he got 30 this year. So, you know, 158 minus 30, he’s going to get to 128. I still don’t think he’s getting to that number. The last free agent first baseman close to this age that really cashed in for nine figures was Freddie Freeman. He got 162 at the age of 32. That’s Freddy Freeman, though Pete Alonso is not Freddy Freeman.”

Freeman, a lock for the Hall of Fame, has been among MLB’s best first basemen since he kicked off his career with the Atlanta Braves in 2010. When he signed with the Dodgers, he boasted a 2020 NL MVP award, eight All-Star selections, three Silver Slugger awards, a Gold Glove from 2018, and a World Series win in 2021.

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Even so, teams are still being careful with first basemen in their 30s. Alonso’s age and defensive skills might affect how long and how much he gets paid in future deals. On the bright side, since the qualifying offer is off the table, it could boost his chances in free agency.