Mets Consider Major Shakeup at First Base

The New York Mets are reportedly exploring options to replace Pete Alonso at first base next season, according to Tim Healey of the Boston Globe. The team has internally discussed the possibility of signing free agent Paul Goldschmidt to create a first-base platoon alongside Jeff McNeil.

For the past seven seasons, Alonso has been a mainstay at the first-base position for the Mets. However, after agreeing to a five-year, $155 million contract with the Baltimore Orioles, his departure has opened the door for potential changes in the lineup. McNeil, who is entering his ninth season with the Mets, has primarily played second base, third base, or outfield throughout his career, making 77 appearances at second base last season.

The situation at second base for the Mets has shifted following the trade of Brandon Nimmo for Marcus Semien from the Texas Rangers. Mets president of baseball operations, David Stearns, hinted that Semien's arrival could lead to McNeil transitioning to first base. “We may ask Jeff to play some first base, depending on how the offseason pans out,” Stearns stated after the Semien trade.

Goldschmidt, a seasoned first baseman, recently became a free agent after completing a one-year deal with the New York Yankees. Securing his services would provide the Mets with much-needed experience at first base, although it may not completely compensate for the loss of both Nimmo and Alonso from the lineup.

Additionally, John Morosi suggested the Mets might also target Cody Bellinger, another former Yankee, who had a productive season last year with a .272 batting average, 25 doubles, and 29 home runs. Bellinger predominantly played outfield last season, where the Mets are likely to experience a vacuum following Nimmo's exit and McNeil's shift to the infield.

Stearns also referenced Triple-A prospect Carson Benge as a potential contender for an outfield spot next season, indicating that the Mets are looking at various options to fill key positions moving forward.