MLB Rumors: Pete Alonso Linked to Cubs, Mariners If Mets Don't Sign Star to Contract

The Seattle Mariners or Chicago Cubs could be Pete Alonso's next stop if the veteran first baseman doesn't re-sign with the New York Mets, according to USA Today's Bob Nightengale.

Nightengale reported the Mariners and Cubs have emerged as the likeliest candidates in the eyes of executives around MLB.

Alonso has continued to produce at the plate while appearing in all 159 of the Mets' games so far. He has hit 34 home runs and driven in 88 runs while slugging .464. While that last number is on pace to be a career low, its well above the MLB average (.400).

According to FanGraphs, the three-time All-Star ranks fourth among first basemen in wOBA (.342) and wRC+ (123).

The fact they kept Alonso through the trade deadline doesn't automatically signal the Mets' desire to retain him at all costs. The front office may have felt the compensatory draft pick it will receive if he gets the qualifying offer and signs elsewhere exceeds what was on offer ahead of the deadline.

But Alonso told the New York Post's Joel Sherman a few weeks ago he had a "gut feeling" about both his future with the Mets and their chances of reaching the playoffs.

"I love it here," he said. "It's a really special place."

On Sept. 19, Jon Heyman of the Post reported the Houston Astros, Texas Rangers, Baltimore Orioles and San Diego Padres could all be in play for the 29-year-old along with Chicago and Seattle. Heyman followed up Thursday to include the Washington Nationals, too, but added "some still see the incumbent Mets as favorites due to 1) fan interest and 2) Steve Cohen's largesse."

It sounds like president of baseball operations David Stearns will have every opportunity to keep Alonso in the Big Apple. The Mets might have to win a bidding war to make it happen, though.