Mets owner Steve Cohen has publically made it clear he only wants the Polar Bear back on his terms. David Stearns, New York’s president of baseball operations, has internal options ready to replace Alonso in the scenario he signs elsewhere. However, the Mets could use Alonso’s bat in 2025.

The Mets explored a trade for Dylan Cease, but the Padres’ high asking price makes a deal unlikely as talks hit a standstill.

Rather than committing to a deal that will pay Soto well into his late 30s, the Yankees took a different approach—one that might offer more flexibility and sustainability. They