The New York Mets are currently weighing their options for potentially replacing slugger Pete Alonso, who remains unsigned as free agency discussions continue to intensify. Recent reports suggest the Mets are eyeing Spencer Torkelson, the former No. 1 overall pick, as a possible candidate to fill Alonso's shoes at first base.
According to Pat Ragazzo of Sports Illustrated, the Mets are considering Torkelson as they prepare for the reality of life without Alonso, who has been a cornerstone for the franchise. Alonso, the four-time All-Star, is expected to depart the Mets, with advanced discussions occurring with various teams, including the Los Angeles Angels and Toronto Blue Jays. This uncertainty has propelled the Mets to look at Torkelson, who is currently with the Detroit Tigers.
Torkelson was selected first overall in the 2020 MLB Draft and has displayed considerable power potential, as showcased by his impressive 31 home runs and 94 RBIs last season. Despite these numbers, the 25-year-old has struggled at times, including posting disappointing averages of .233/.313/.446 and .219/.295/.374 across two seasons. His performance has been erratic, leading to multiple demotions to Triple-A Toledo. Yet, with four years of club control remaining, he poses as an appealing option for the Mets, particularly as they seek to augment their roster.
The situation with Torkelson has shifted since the Tigers signed Gleyber Torres to be their new starting second baseman, which has squeezed Torkelson’s playing time and created uncertainty about his role for the upcoming season. With the Tigers moving Colt Keith to first base, Torkelson’s future with the team appears precarious. The Mets, recognizing his potential upside if he receives the right opportunity, could make a push to acquire him.
Alonso’s possible exit from the Mets has resulted from failed negotiations on contract renewal, with reports indicating the team made one final offer of three years at approximately $68 to $70 million, which Alonso rejected. The Mets are preparing contingency plans by considering moving players such as Mark Vientos to first base if they cannot retain Alonso. Vientos, along with others like Brett Baty or Jeff McNeil, could fill the gap left by Alonso based on potential internal moves.
Several clubs have been monitoring the Alonso situation closely, particularly as he continues his seek for employment. The Blue Jays were mentioned as key players in negotiations but have not secured Alonso's services yet. Various rumors suggest Alonso's ties to teams like the Angels have emerged as serious contenders. The Mets, meanwhile, are weighing their options between internal adjustments and external acquisitions, with Torkelson being one of their key targets.
For the Mets, the immediate objective is clear: they need to find someone who can replicate Alonso’s production as the potential for his departure looms. By turning to Torkelson, they look to capture some of the power and consistency necessary to maintain their competitive edge. His ceiling as a hitter was demonstrated during his 2023 season, and if the Mets could secure the young talent, it might deliver the balance of youthful potential and needed power to the lineup.
While the Tigers will likely not give away Torkelson easily, his diminished role within their franchise due to recent personnel changes makes him susceptible to being dealt. The Mets are aware they will need to offer considerable value to acquire him, but they are poised to act if Torkelson becomes available as part of their overall strategy.
With the Mets’ management anticipated to restructure their roster under the leadership of David Stearns, Torkelson fits the mold of players they want to acquire—those with long-term potential who can contribute significantly as they look toward the future.
While the search for Alonso's replacement remains at the forefront, the Mets must also navigate the broader challenges of their roster construction and how best to position themselves for the upcoming season. The exploration of options like Torkelson signals their readiness to be proactive during this pivotal time. Its resolution, whether through securing Torkelson or another alternative, will significantly impact the Mets' 2025 campaign and beyond.