MLB trade rumors: New York Mets might be interested in $80 million Chicago Cubs MVP as potential Pete Alonso filler

The New York Mets are facing a pivotal offseason after an underwhelming campaign, and the biggest storyline surrounds superstar first baseman Pete Alonso’s uncertain future in free agency.

With the possibility of Alonso departing, the Mets are being pushed to explore high-profile alternatives, including a surprising target from across town: New York Yankees star Cody Bellinger.Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller suggested that the Mets consider Bellinger as both an offensive anchor and a defensive upgrade. With the Mets bracing for roster changes, adding an $80 million former MVP and two-time All-Star could reshape their lineup immediately.

Why Cody Bellinger has emerged as the Mets’ top fallback option

Cody Bellinger, who spent the season delivering consistent production, is drawing interest because of his versatility and the New York Mets’ unsettled outfield. His ability to play first base also gives New York insurance if the Mark Vientos and Brett Baty plan does not fully develop.Here is what Miller wrote about the fit, quoting directly from his article: “Bellinger would make a lot of sense, and does have plenty of experience at first base, just in case the Vientos/Baty plan falls flat.” (H/t: Sporting News)

Cody Bellinger’s 2024 performance at a glance

Cody Bellinger’s numbers from this past season underline why he has become one of the most discussed free-agent bats available.

Cody Bellinger 2024 Stats

While he does not replicate Alonso’s pure home-run power, Bellinger compensates with better speed, defensive value, and lineup flexibility. Pairing him with Juan Soto in the outfield would give the Mets one of baseball’s most dynamic duos.

How Cody Bellinger fits Mets’ lineup plans without Alonso

If Pete Alonso leaves, the Mets will need to stabilize both the heart of the order and their defensive structure. Cody Bellinger offers a solution to both concerns:

What Bellinger would bring

• A left-handed power bat who can slot behind or ahead of Juan Soto • Additional defensive range compared to Alonso • Flexibility to play center field, corner outfield spots, or first base • A strong complement to Francisco Lindor in the top half of the lineupMiller noted that the Mets’ infield is mostly settled after acquiring Marcus Semien, with Lindor at shortstop, Semien at second, and Vientos and Baty slotted for corner infield duties.

However, the outfield - beyond Soto - has lingering questions, making Bellinger an appealing solution.

New York Mets’ roster outlook if they pair Soto, Lindor, and Bellinger

A potential new offensive core built around Juan Soto, Francisco Lindor, and Cody Bellinger would give the New York Mets a balanced and competitive lineup. Even with Bellinger on board, the Mets will still need to make major upgrades to their pitching staff, but a reconstructed offensive trio could stabilize the team’s hitting while the front office works on rebuilding the rotation.

Projected “Big Three” Impact

The urgency for the Mets to act

With Alonso’s future undecided, the Mets cannot afford to wait. Engaging with Bellinger’s camp early would prevent the club from scrambling if negotiations with Alonso stall or break down. The Mets’ front office needs multiple offseason wins, and Bellinger represents both a safety net and a fresh opportunity to reshape their identity.Also read: MLB trade rumors: Boston Red Sox might acquire $6 million Kansas City Royals All-Star Ace in an attempt to bolster rotation ahead of deadlineIf the Mets find a way to add Bellinger while securing upgrades on the mound, they could transition quickly from a disappointing year to a serious contender.