Stearns: Mets, Alonso will talk extension

New York Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns plans to discuss a contract extension with three-time All-Star first baseman Pete Alonso this offseason.

"We're going to have those conversations," Stearns said Wednesday on MLB Network, according to SNY's Danny Abriano. "I'm generally of the mind that I try to keep those conversations out of the public dialogue. ...

"I'd like to have those conversations behind closed doors. I think they're most productive that way."

Scott Boras, Alonso's new agent, said he met with Stearns on Tuesday to discuss the slugger's future with the Mets.

"When it comes to the Polar Bear, we're not in contract hibernation," Boras said Wednesday at the GM meetings, according to The Athletic's Evan Drellich.

Locking up Alonso, who turns 29 in December, would keep him from entering free agency after the 2024 campaign, when he'd be one of the top players available. An extension would also quiet trade rumors surrounding the 2019 National League Rookie of the Year and two-time Home Run Derby champion.

The Milwaukee Brewers made a strong push for Alonso before last season's trade deadline.

"I know over the summer there was some trade speculation, and look, I'll just say I expect Pete to be the Opening Day first baseman next year," Stearns said. "Pete's an important member of this team, he's an important member of this organization, and I think we're really fortunate to have him."

Alonso has hit 192 home runs and 498 RBIs while slugging .528 with an .870 OPS in 684 games for the Mets over his five big-league seasons.