Dark Horse named surprise free agent candidate for Mets’ Pete Alonso

Several MLB teams were widely mentioned as top potential destinations for New York Mets slugger Pete Alonso in free agency this offseason. In addition to the Mets, who re-signed Alonso, some clubs considered favorites to acquire him include the Chicago Cubs and Houston Astros.

However, one team that almost no one was talking about securing Alonso’s services this offseason was the Detroit Tigers. That is, until MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand outlined in a September 12 article why it would make sense for Detroit to continue its deal with Alonso this offseason.

“Despite the presence of (Spencer) Torkelson and (Javier) Báez, the two positions that could be discussed are first base and shortstop,” Feinsand wrote. “…there are several intriguing first base options on the market this offseason, including Pete Alonso.”

Spencer Torkelson was the first overall pick in the 2020 MLB Draft. While the 25-year-old first baseman showed signs of superstardom last season, he has regressed in 2024, posting a .217 batting average, .652 OPS, and just 8 home runs this year.

“Torkelson got a chance, but I’m not sure he consistently showed what they were hoping for, that he would be fully capable,” the NL executive was quoted as saying in the article. “I wouldn’t say they should give up on him, but I certainly wouldn’t shy away from Alonso if he was there.”

Pursuing and/or signing Alonso does not necessarily mean Detroit will give up Torkelson, as one of the two strong players could become the team’s primary DH.

“I could imagine (Detroit) adding a big name and then trying to fill some of the gaps,” the NL executive added. “But a big name will be a challenge because they’ll be competing with big teams. It should be interesting. We’ve seen them spend money on big names in the past, so they’re certainly capable of doing that.”

Could Alonso be the big name that can help the Tigers compete for the postseason next season? Mets fans certainly don’t have that hope.