Chris Russo has caused a stir again with his prediction regarding the New York Mets’ upcoming moves. According to the MLB analyst, the team’s possible interest in acquiring superstar Juan Soto may result in a sacrifice. Parting ways with Pete Alonso, a player who has been developed within the team and is adored by fans. The Mets are in the lead when it comes to getting Soto on board. However, Russo says this move, needing a significant financial investment of around 600 million dollars, might limit their ability to reach a lasting agreement with Alonso, whose next contract is predicted to go over 150 million dollars.

The Mets’ current payroll flexibility, with over $180 million coming off the books this offseason, has fueled hopes of keeping Alonso while chasing Soto. However, Russo warns that even Steve Cohen, baseball’s wealthiest owner, has his limits. If the Mets sign Soto, it could signal that Alonso’s time in Queens has come to an end. Russo’s take shows the difficult balancing act Mets leadership faces as they aim to build a roster capable of contending for championships without losing the identity and stability Alonso represents.

Homegrown hero vs. generational talent: Can the Mets acquire both?

In a recent YouTube video posted by The New York Post Sports, Chris Russo said, “If he (Soto) does sign the Mets, they’re gonna lose Pete Alonso. He said, I don’t see the Mets giving Soto all this money and then giving 150 million for Alonso.” Russo’s concerns are noteworthy, even as the Mets have over $180 million coming off their payroll this offseason. Major contracts for Justin Verlander, Max Scherzer, and others have expired, leaving the team in an enviable financial position. This new payroll space has made the Mets favorites for both Soto and Alonso, but Russo questions whether they can balance two massive deals without damaging their long-term strategy.

Alonso, a standout player with 46 home runs and 118 RBIs this year, is beloved by fans as the franchise’s figurehead. However, Russo suggests that the Mets might consider making Pete Alonso replaceable due to their interest in prioritizing Soto’s skills and star quality. While fans could be disappointed by Alonso’s departure, Russo contends that the chance of acquiring Soto may be too good for the Mets to ignore.

Now, the Mets’ decision-makers and David Stearns face a high-stakes choice. They must balance immediate ambitions with long-term financial sustainability. While their $180 million in payroll space provides breathing room, Russo warns it could evaporate quickly with Soto’s unprecedented demands. The debate marks a big question for the Mets: Can they truly afford both Soto and Alonso, or will one star inevitably overshadow the other?

Why losing Pete Alonso could backfire?

Since joining the Mets in 2019 as a rising star, Alonso has been driving their offensive plays forward with his exceptional talent. That year, he made history by breaking the rookie record with an impressive 53 home runs and has consistently maintained his position as one of the league’s top power hitters throughout his five seasons in the game. Boasting an average of 42 homers and 109 RBIs per season, Alonso has undoubtedly become a vital pillar of the team, not just through his outstanding stats but also through his enthusiasm and leadership qualities.

Pete also boasts a strong bond with fans, making him stand out as the face of the franchise. So, moving on from Pete Alonso could hurt the Mets on and off the field. Alonso’s marketability and fan appeal drive ticket sales and merchandise revenue; additionally, replacing his production wouldn’t be easy. In 2024, he ranked among the top sluggers in MLB by posting a .522 slugging percentage. Moreover, letting Alonso walk in free agency or trading him could damage the team’s culture. While Juan Soto might bring star power, the loss of Alonso could overshadow the gain, leaving a bitter taste for a franchise looking to build long-term stability.

In the end, balancing these priorities will test David Stearns and Steve Cohen, as losing Pete Alonso to secure Soto might solve one problem but create another. Now, the Mets must tread carefully to ensure their pursuit of stars doesn’t undermine the stability they’ve worked to build.