A new MLB rumor just opened the door for New York Mets president David Stearns to get a solid replacement for Pete Alonso and slash some payroll.
This has been a rough week for Mets fans. On Monday, they found out that not only was All-Star closer Edwin Diaz not returning, but he was also joining rivals the Los Angeles Dodgers. Then they were hit with a blow, this time right to their hearts.
Mets home run king, Pete Alonso’s days in New York are over because he accepted a five-year deal worth $155 million from the Baltimore Orioles on Tuesday. Now, the club must find adequate replacements for the pair of stars. Fortunately, they signed two-time All-Star Devin Williams earlier this week, just in case Diaz left. However, who will replace Alonso?
President David Stearns has proven over the last two years, if he is going to add players that are 30 and over, he wants them on short-term deals. Furthermore, a report this week claimed the team would prefer to make additions by moving certain veteran players already on the roster. Well, a new rumor offers an Alonso replacement option that checks off key trade boxes.
Should the NY Mets target a Christian Walker trade?
According to The Athletic, the Houston Astros need to trade 11-year veteran Christian Walker. However, the 34-year-old is drawing very limited interest after a down season in 2025, his contract and his age. With few suitors, the Mets may be able to benefit in a deal.
In a trade, they may be able to offload either Jeff McNeil or Kodai Senga, and because his value isn’t high, they won’t need to part with a worthwhile prospect in the deal. The team is reportedly interested in moving the two veterans this offseason.
While he had a slash line of .238/.297/.421/.717, Walker still slugged 27 home runs and is a durable player. Two other factors that make Walker an interesting option are that he is a three-time Gold Glove. Improving the defense, especially on the right side, has been a top priority this offseason. And his $20 million annual rate is over $10 million less than Alonso’s, and for only two more seasons.
