Why the Cubs Should Make a $165 Million Push for Pete Alonso

For the second consecutive winter, Pete Alonso’s future has become one of baseball’s most-watched offseason storylines. The New York Mets slugger — and face of the franchise for much of the past decade — opted out of his deal on November 2, officially entering free agency once more. After another elite season at the plate, the 30-year-old first baseman now stands at a career crossroads: stay with a hesitant Mets front office or pursue a new chapter elsewhere.

Alonso was everything New York could have hoped for in 2025. He hit .272 with 38 home runs and 126 RBIs, posting an .871 OPS while appearing in all 162 games for the second straight year. His consistency and durability have become his calling cards, even as the Mets stumbled out of playoff contention. But despite his production, the organization appears reluctant to commit to him long term — opening the door for suitors ready to make a serious offer.

Enter the Chicago Cubs. With their competitive window reopening and a strong young core taking shape, Chicago finds itself in ideal position to pursue a player like Alonso. A power-hitting, durable first baseman has been the missing piece in an otherwise balanced roster, and few players fit that need better than the Mets’ all-time home run leader.

For a franchise eager to take the next step from fringe contender to legitimate powerhouse, a bold move could make the difference. By offering Alonso a five-year, $165 million contract, the Cubs can simultaneously address their offensive shortcomings and signal their intent to compete for championships — not just playoff berths.

1. The Winning Contract Blueprint

A five-year, $165 million deal would put Chicago at the front of the bidding war without entering reckless financial territory. At an average annual value of $33 million, the proposal surpasses industry projections of three years and $115 million or four years and $128 million, showing both seriousness and respect for Alonso’s stature. It’s the type of offer that conveys belief in a player’s impact beyond just numbers. Incentive structures could add an additional layer of flexibility. Performance bonuses tied to MVP votes, All-Star selections, and postseason achievements could push the total value to $175 million, rewarding continued excellence while maintaining long-term payroll control. Just as importantly, a full no-trade clause would underscore Chicago’s commitment — something Alonso never felt fully from the Mets’ front office. Beyond money, the Cubs can appeal to Alonso’s sense of legacy. Wrigley Field offers a stage unlike any other, and Chicago’s rich baseball culture provides the type of environment where a player of Alonso’s profile can thrive both on and off the field. The organization’s blend of rising talent and veteran leadership gives him a realistic shot at October baseball in the near future — a promise the Mets have failed to deliver on since 2022. For Alonso, the move could represent more than a payday; it could be a career-defining transition. With his prime years ticking down, joining a young, hungry roster in a storied baseball city could provide the competitive stability he’s been searching for.

2. The Mets’ Uncertain Commitment

The Mets’ handling of Alonso’s contract situation has baffled fans and league observers alike. Despite his production, leadership, and status as the franchise’s all-time home run leader, New York’s front office — led by president David Stearns — has consistently hesitated to engage in long-term talks. That uncertainty has created an opening for clubs like the Cubs to make a compelling case built on stability and respect. Reports last offseason suggested the Mets were willing to let Alonso test the market, confident they could replace his power through depth and versatility. Yet as their 2025 season unraveled, it became clear how central Alonso remained to their identity. Losing him now, after another top-tier season, would mark a definitive turning point for the organization — one signaling a shift toward rebuilding rather than retooling. Chicago, meanwhile, can offer the opposite: a unified front office vision centered on contention. Cubs management has shown a willingness to spend strategically, and Alonso fits perfectly into their timeline — experienced enough to lead, yet still productive enough to anchor a lineup through his mid-thirties. For a player who has given everything to the Mets only to face annual contract uncertainty, a move to an organization eager to embrace him as a cornerstone could be refreshing. The Cubs’ pursuit would not only fill a glaring offensive gap but also serve as a statement of intent across baseball’s landscape.

3. Financial Context and Market Outlook

The financial landscape supports an aggressive Cubs offer. Projections suggest Alonso could command around $128 million over four years, with some optimistic estimates stretching to $140 million over five. Chicago’s proposed $165 million deal surpasses those marks while avoiding the excessive seven-year, $250 million-type contracts reserved for younger superstars. It’s an assertive yet responsible figure for a player with elite power and durability. While several teams — including the Red Sox, Giants, Angels, and Blue Jays — have expressed interest, few possess both the payroll flexibility and the competitive motivation the Cubs bring to the table. Chicago has room to spend without jeopardizing future moves and the clear need for a right-handed slugger who can immediately elevate their lineup. Alonso’s defensive metrics have occasionally drawn criticism, but his offensive production consistently outweighs those concerns. A career OPS near .870 and a track record of health and durability make him one of the most reliable power bats available this winter. In an era defined by short benches and load management, his ability to post 162 games in consecutive seasons is increasingly rare. For the Cubs, the calculus is simple: championship teams are built on players who combine production, leadership, and reliability. Alonso checks all three boxes. Offering him a deal that values his consistency and power could mark the start of Chicago’s next great era.