July 15, 2024; Arlington, TX, USA; National League first baseman Pete Alonso of the New York Mets (20) reacts during the 2024 home run derby at Globe Life Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports Is Pete Alonso Nearing the End of His Time with the New York Mets?
The team’s star first baseman, who will become a free agent at the end of the season, is looking to end a lackluster season on a high note. He will start Friday night’s game, when New York opens a four-game road series against the Miami Marlins.
Alonso’s numbers aren’t bad – .240, 19 home runs and 51 RBIs – but he has at least 37 home runs in each of his four full seasons and has driven in at least 94 runs. Three times, he’s recorded more than 100 RBIs.
A boost for Alonso would not only boost his future salary, but could also help the Mets qualify for the playoffs. They currently hold the final wild-card spot in the National League, one game ahead of the defending National League champion Arizona Diamondbacks and San Diego Padres.
“It never crossed my mind,” Alonso said of his future. “I still consider New York home. For me, I just try to do everything I can to help this team win. I love this group, this organization and this city.”
Even with Alonso off his usual game, New York is eighth in the major leagues in runs scored and fifth in home runs. Francisco Lindor and Brandon Nimmo have led a vigorous offense over the past six weeks that has seen the Mets win more than two-thirds of their games.
To become a playoff team and have a chance to win in the postseason, the Mets know their pitching will need to improve. The team’s 4.23 ERA is 22nd in MLB and the club will likely be shopping the trade market before the trade deadline in less than two weeks.
Mets left-hander Sean Manaea (6-3, 3.46 ERA) will start Friday night. Manaea last pitched July 12 in a 7-6 win over Colorado, striking out nine in seven innings to earn the decision. He is 1-1 with a 4.80 ERA in three career starts against the Marlins, beating them in May.
While New York has playoff ambitions, Miami is playing the success card. At 30 games below .500, the Marlins have little chance of getting back into the playoff race. Trades seem to be an option in hopes of rebuilding a barren farm system.
Jazz Chisholm could be one of those players headed to a contending team. The team’s center fielder is likely to spend time at second base, where he played before moving to the outfield last year. Kansas City, Seattle and the New York Yankees could be eager to sign a versatile player like Chisholm.
Miami manager Skip Schumaker said there were several reasons to move Chisholm back to his original position. In fact, Chisholm started Sunday’s 3-2 win at Cincinnati at second base.
“I try to keep him in the lineup every day,” Schumaker said. “I also try to get him to play 160-plus games every day, which he’s never done. Maybe second base is a way to get him a little rest … I think he could play this game in his sleep.”
The Marlins’ likely starting pitcher Friday is right-hander Edward Cabrera (1-3, 8.26). He is 1-2 with a 5.67 ERA in seven career starts against the Mets.
–Field level media
