Alonso remains the top power hitter available, but as a first baseman with little value outside of his bat, his market has not developed as he hoped. Most recently, the four-time All-Star’s camp extended an exclusive offer to the Mets, believed to be for three years with a high average annual value.

At some point the Mets either have to hear that Alonzo is willing to accept their financial view of him or will get more aggressive elsewhere, probably pretty soon.

But quietly, the Mets brought back left-hander Sean Manaea, which could go a long way towards shoring up the pitching staff. The 33-year-old Manaea had a fantastic season in New York, learning a new arm slot and becoming the most reliable starter in the Mets' rotation.

The expectation is that Alonso will re-sign with the Mets on a short-term, high AAV deal rather than the long-term $200 million contract. If this is the case, then, depending on the dollar amount, a deal could be considered imminent.

The Mets and Pete Alonso navigate contract negotiations. Find out how this crucial decision will shape the team's success.

All indications are that contract negotiations between the New York Mets and longtime slugger Pete Alonso are currently in the most crucial stages. Ever since

All-Star first baseman Pete Alonso is predicted to sign a record-breaking contract to stay with the New York Mets.

When New York Mets first baseman Pete Alonso declared free agency after six seasons with the team that picked him in the second round of the 2016 draft, it was widely expected that he could command a contract worth about $200 million over seven years.

After whiffing on Roki Sasaki, the New York Mets could turn their attention to a huge trade for Seattle Mariners pitcher Luis Castillo.