5 New York Mets free agent signings they should make whether they sign Juan Soto or not

How long can Juan Soto put this off? Okay, maybe it’s not his fault. Super agent Scott Boras is the one holding the MLB world hostage as the bidding for his client comes to a close and exhausted New York Mets fans can finally get an answer.

Regardless of whether Soto signs with the Mets or not, the team should aggressively pursue these three other free agents.

1) Pete Alonso

It was never about Soto OR Pete Alonso. The two play different positions and as expensive as the pairing will be, the Mets need to add two bats to their lineup. You shouldn’t have to choose between one or the other. With or without Soto, Alonso is their best option at first base.

Firstly, it’s about what Alonso can bring to the team. There is no better hitter in free agency than Alonso. Because of familiarity, the team already knows what they are getting into.

Second, Alonso doesn’t have the same qualifying bid penalties that others carry. Soto is worth losing draft picks and adding international money. Was Willy Adames worth losing two draft picks and signing more? What about Alex Bregman, Anthony Santander, Christian Walker and other supposed Alonso alternatives in midfield?

A lineup with Alonso batting behind Soto, be it directly or with Mark Vientos between the two, was the dream situation for the ball club. The Mets will have the option to trade for a better defensive third baseman with Vientos at first base, but I wouldn’t be quick to make such a transaction.

Soto or not, the Polar Bear should wear the orange and blue again in 2025 and for the rest of his career.