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    Mets Trade Rumors: Pete Alonso’s exit sees 1B replacement opportunities for Munetaka Murakami & ex-Phillies veteran

    Gossip
    Runfyers
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    The New York Mets lost a key piece in their lineup this week. Pete Alonso has signed a five-year deal with the Baltimore Orioles, leaving a void at first base in the Mets lineup.

    On Friday, Boomer Esiason discussed the Mets’ potential first base options with his WFAN Morning co-host Gregg Giannotti. Esiason pointed towards Japan’s Munetaka Murakami and former Philadelphia Phillies star Rhys Hoskins.

    “There are two real first basemen that I think the Mets are going to end up with,” Esiason said. “If I had to look into the future, December 22 is when this Munetaka — what’s his name — Murakami, the first baseman from Japan, has to sign a contract. He’s like 25 years old.

    “He can play third base, first base, and DH. So they’re either going after him, or this next one you’re not going to like, but maybe a guy like Rhys Hoskins. Just to be over there, because, you know, Rhys was up in Philadelphia.”

    Murakami has been posted to MLB and is available for MLB teams to negotiate through Dec. 22. In eight seasons playing in NPB, he registered 246 home runs, a .270 batting average, 647 RBIs, .951 OPS and 146 doubles.

    In 2022, he recorded a Triple Crown season, breaking NPB’s single-season home run record by hitting 56 bombs that year. His resume boasts 2× Central League MVP, 4× NPB All-Star, Central League Rookie of the Year (2019) and Japan Series Champion (with Yakult).

    Mets’ options at first base after Pete Alonso left

    The Mets could go with an internal option to fill first base. Mark Vientos seems the ideal replacement since he has received some reps at first base. Jeff McNeil is another utility option for the Mets to consider. Other in-house options to consider include Brett Baty or Ronny Mauricio.

    On the outside, free agents such as Paul Goldschmidt and Ryan O’Hearn have been mentioned as possible fits for the Mets. Through trade, the Mets can target players like Cody Bellinger and Willson Contreras. Bellinger can play anywhere in the outfield and also at first base.

    It remains to be seen how the Mets front office reacts to Pete Alonso’s signing.