Pete Alonso: The NL's Home Run King Still Waiting on His Payday after Vladimir Guerrero Jr. extention

MLB Rumors: Pete Alonso: The NL's Home Run King Still Waiting on His Payday after Vladimir Guerrero Jr. extention

Could Pete Alonso be the next slugger to cash in?

After watching Vladimir Guerrero Jr. secure a jaw-dropping 14-year, $500 million extension with the Toronto Blue Jays, it appears New York Mets star Pete Alonso is setting his sights on a big payday of his own. While Alonso’s most recent contract—a two-year, $54 million deal—was seen as a stopgap, it’s clear he still has his eyes on a long-term, big-money deal. And Guerrero’s extension just shifted the landscape in his favor.

Alonso: The NL's Home Run King Still Waiting on His Payday

Since breaking into the majors in 2019, Alonso has led the National League in home runs, establishing himself as one of the most feared power hitters in the game. Despite that, he didn’t receive the blockbuster deal many expected this offseason. Why? Several reasons:

• One-dimensional skillset: Alonso is known for his power, but he’s not an elite defender, lacks speed, and doesn’t post elite on-base numbers.

• Position matters: First basemen have historically received less money in free agency compared to other positions—something that has hurt Alonso's market value.

Guerrero’s Extension Changes the Game

That could all be changing now.

When Guerrero Jr. inked his $500M extension, it marked a seismic shift in how first basemen are valued. While Vlad Jr. is arguably a more well-rounded player, the gap isn’t as massive as the money might suggest. In fact, their career OPS numbers are just five points apart.

And Alonso took notice.

While he didn’t speak directly about contract numbers, he expressed optimism that Guerrero’s deal could reset the market for first basemen—something that could directly benefit him if the trend continues.

The Opt-Out That Could Change Everything

Alonso’s current deal includes an opt-out after the 2025 season, and if he delivers a monster year, there’s a high likelihood he’ll hit the open market again. With Guerrero off the board, Alonso would instantly become the top first baseman available in free agency.

That sets the stage for a potential bidding war—especially if Alonso can bounce back from a somewhat disappointing 2024 campaign. He's already off to a stronger start in 2025, and a return to his typical form (40+ HR, 100+ RBI) could vault him right back into elite financial territory.

How Much Could Alonso Really Make?

No one expects Alonso to hit the $500 million mark—and he likely won’t. But Guerrero's deal has given Alonso a legitimate case to demand well north of $200 million, possibly more if the market heats up.

At 30 years old by next offseason, Alonso is still in his prime and could be a major prize for a contender looking for a middle-of-the-order bat. With the positional market now trending upward, his timing might be perfect.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. just raised the bar—and Pete Alonso is watching closely.

If Alonso stays healthy and produces in 2025, the stage is set for him to finally secure the massive, long-term contract he's been chasing. And for once, being a first baseman might actually work in his favor.