Mets Face Uncertain Future After NLCS Loss
The New York Mets’ postseason run came to an end with a 10-5 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 6 of the NLCS. As the team packed up their gear and said their goodbyes, the reality of their uncertain future began to sink in.
A Dozen Pending Free Agents
The Mets have a staggering 12 players set to become free agents this offseason, including their top starting pitchers and first baseman Pete Alonso. Alonso, who has been with the team for six years, has become a fan favorite and a cornerstone of the franchise.
Alonso’s Future in Question
When asked about his future with the team, Alonso fought back emotions. “I’m really proud of what I was able to accomplish here,” he said. “I laid it out there every day. I played my heart out every day… I love this team. I love New York. I love playing in Queens.”
A Career Year for Alonso
Despite hitting a career-low 34 home runs, Alonso’s 31 doubles were a career high. His 123 OPS-plus was identical to his 2023 mark, when he hit 46 home runs. He’s likely to command a $100 million or more deal if he chooses to sign a long-term contract.
The Locker Room Reaction
As players said their goodbyes, the sentiment was clear: they don’t want this season to end. “I haven’t thought about anything that far,” Alonso said. “I’m just kind of shell shocked that the season is over.”
The Starting Rotation in Flux
The trio of Mets starters who led the team down the stretch – Jose Quintana, Luis Severino, and Sean Manaea – all expressed a desire to return. However, they know that change is part of the game. “I have no control over that right now,” Manaea said through tears. “I love my time here. I love New York. I love the organization.”
Cohen’s Commitment to Winning
Owner Steve Cohen has made it clear that he’s committed to winning a championship. He met with Alonso’s and Manaea’s agent, Scott Boras, before Game 6, but no deals were made. The real negotiations will begin in November.
Pete Alonso: The Heart and Soul of the Mets
Teammate Brandon Nimmo summed it up best: “Pete has done so much for this organization, right from the get-go. He means a lot to the fan base and this team. I think this October has definitely topped it off. He came through in clutch situations. It was vintage Polar Bear Pete.”
Martinez’s Future Uncertain
Designated hitter J.D. Martinez joked about playing pickleball next season, but he’s not ready to hang up his cleats just yet. “If it happens, it happens,” he said. “If it doesn’t, it doesn’t. I’m not going to come back because I’m begging to come back… I love hitting baseballs.”
The Task Ahead for Stearns
Mets GM David Stearns has a tough job ahead of him, with nearly half the team set to become free agents. Martinez knows that the team will need to fill the holes left by departing players. “Obviously, they have some big decisions to make with the free agents,” he said. “We have to fill the holes that are going to be missing next year.”
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