Yankees could pursue surprising free agent target
Aug 14, 2023; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; A detailed view of a New York Yankees hat and glove on the bench against the Atlanta Braves in the third inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
The New York Yankees made a significant decision on Saturday that could lead to them pursuing a surprising free agent target.
The Yankees declined Anthony Rizzo’s $17 million option on Sunday, putting them in the market for a first baseman. According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, one name that could wind up on their target list is Pete Alonso of the crosstown rival New York Mets.
Alonso, according to Heyman, is thought to be a potential backup plan if the club fails to bring back Juan Soto for 2025.
Yanks have 1B open now and could play for Pete Alonso. He’s believed to be a prime backup plan to Plan A Juan Soto. Could also go for Walker, Goldschmidt, etc. https://t.co/NLxMf9aI5w
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) November 2, 2024
The Mets are viewed by many as one of the biggest threats to pry Soto away from the Yankees. In this scenario, the two teams would essentially be swapping stars, though Soto is indisputably the more valuable player.
There is no question about Alonso’s power, and a move from Citi Field to Yankee Stadium could make him even more dangerous. He is also coming off an impactful season that saw him deliver a massive season-saving home run. The 29-year-old hit .240 for the Mets with 34 home runs in the regular season.
Soto will clearly be the priority for the Yankees. However, after the team’s disappointing World Series showing, the team will presumably be aggressive in exploring all avenues of potential improvement.
