When the news broke that several analysts and media outlets were urging the New York Mets to consider parting ways with Pete Alonso, it sent shockwaves through Queens. For years, Alonso has been more than just a player — he’s been a franchise cornerstone, a power-hitting fan favorite whose home runs lit up Citi Field and whose personality became a key part of the team’s identity.

But the 2025 season didn’t end the way the Mets or their fans expected. A year that began with playoff aspirations ended in frustration and underachievement, prompting uncomfortable questions about the team’s future direction. Among those questions: Should the Mets hold on to Alonso, a star whose production has shown signs of decline, or make a bold move to reshape the roster?

This isn’t just about one player. It’s about whether the Mets are willing to make strategic, potentially unpopular decisions to build a sustainable contender — or cling to a familiar face at the expense of future success.

Pete Alonso’s Current Status: From Franchise Face to Trade Candidate?

When Pete Alonso burst onto the scene in 2019, he was a revelation. His 53 home runs as a rookie set an MLB record, earning him the nickname “Polar Bear” and cementing his place as one of the league’s most feared power hitters. Year after year, he was the Mets’ offensive engine, driving in runs, thrilling fans, and giving the franchise a true face for the modern era.

Fast forward to 2025, and the picture is more complicated. Alonso still hit home runs — that’s what he does best — but his overall numbers have taken a step back. His batting average and on-base percentage have dipped compared to his peak years, and his OPS has fallen out of the elite tier. Defensively, his limitations at first base have become more glaring, and he’s now entering the latter part of his prime years.

A closer look at advanced metrics paints a similar picture. His WAR (Wins Above Replacement) has plateaued, suggesting he’s no longer carrying the same all-around value as in his breakout seasons. Injuries haven’t been catastrophic, but nagging issues have slowed him at times, and his baserunning has declined with age.

Then there’s the contract situation. Alonso is approaching free agency, and with a track record of power production, he’ll likely command a massive long-term deal — possibly one that rivals some of the largest first baseman contracts in MLB history. For the Mets, this raises a critical question: Is Alonso still worth superstar money as his overall impact declines?

Why Some Experts Say It’s Time to Move On

The idea of trading or letting go of Pete Alonso may seem unthinkable to some, but there’s a growing chorus of voices arguing that now might be the smartest time for the Mets to act. Here’s why.

Declining Performance vs. Rising Cost

Several analysts point to Alonso’s downward-trending performance metrics. While his power numbers remain respectable, his overall offensive value has dipped. Committing a massive contract to a slugger entering his 30s with limited defensive versatility carries significant risk. Teams around MLB have become more cautious about such deals after seeing aging sluggers decline rapidly.

A Strategic Shift Toward Youth and Pitching

The Mets are at a crossroads. With a farm system that’s improving but still thin at certain positions, the front office may be looking to build around young pitching and versatile position players rather than a power-only first baseman. Moving Alonso could free up financial resources and roster space to pursue this new direction.

Trade Value Is Still High

Despite the dip in performance, Alonso remains a desirable trade asset. Power is always in demand, and several teams could see him as the missing piece for a playoff run. By trading him before he hits free agency, the Mets could maximize their return — potentially acquiring multiple high-end prospects or MLB-ready talent.

Locker Room and Cultural Reset

Sometimes, changing a franchise’s trajectory requires symbolic moves. Letting go of Alonso — the face of the current era — could signal a new cultural direction. It’s not about blaming him for the 2025 collapse; it’s about setting a new tone, one that emphasizes adaptability, depth, and long-term vision.

As one New York columnist put it:

“Keeping Alonso because he’s popular isn’t a strategy. It’s nostalgia disguised as planning.”

Why the Mets Might Regret Letting Him Go

Of course, the decision to part ways with Pete Alonso is far from straightforward. There are equally compelling arguments for keeping him — and serious risks if the Mets choose otherwise.

Offensive Anchor

Even in a “down” year, Alonso remains the most consistent source of power in the Mets lineup. Removing him would leave a gaping hole in the heart of the batting order, one that won’t be easily filled. Free agency is thin on elite sluggers, and prospects aren’t guaranteed.

Marketing & Fanbase Impact

Alonso isn’t just a player; he’s a brand. His jerseys sell, his presence boosts attendance, and he’s beloved by fans. In a city like New York, where public perception matters as much as wins, the backlash from trading or letting go of Alonso could be fierce. Think Derek Jeter or David Wright levels of attachment — that’s the kind of emotional terrain we’re in.

Lack of Replacements

The free-agent market for first basemen is thin. Trading Alonso might net prospects, but there’s no guarantee those players will develop quickly or at all. The Mets could end up weaker in the short term without a clear path to replace his production.

“Face of the Franchise” Factor

For over half a decade, Alonso has been the face of the Mets. Letting him walk sends a message — to fans, to the clubhouse, and to future free agents — about the franchise’s direction. Some argue that keeping him as a franchise pillar could provide stability during a transitional period.

The New York Mets face a pivotal choice after the 2025 season: whether to part ways with Pete Alonso, their longtime slugger and franchise icon. Trading him could signal a bold shift toward a youth-driven, pitching-focused future, while keeping him would preserve a powerful bat, strong fan connection, and marketing influence. This decision is more than a roster move — it reflects the Mets’ identity and direction for years to come. Whether they choose strategy or sentiment, the Pete Alonso decision will define the next chapter at Citi Field and shape the team’s future well beyond 2026.