It’s well known that after a season marked by some promising moments but largely hampered by injuries and inconsistency, the Chicago Cubs are planning to take an aggressive approach this offseason to fill the need for a power hitter in the heart of their lineup. If things go their way, that hitter could be Mets’ star first baseman, a player they’ve been linked to since the spring. Although he didn’t have a stellar season (.240 average and a career-low .788 OPS), he still hit 34 home runs—nine more than any Cubs player.
The Cubs hit 170 home runs in 2024, ranking 20th in MLB, which is too low for a home-run-friendly park like Wrigley Field. Veteran MLB insider Bob Nightengale of USA Today reports, “If All-Star first baseman doesn’t return to the Mets, rival executives believe he will end up in Seattle or with the Cubs.”
Alonso not returning to the Mets remains a significant “if.” The most likely scenario is still a Mets return, unless they manage to outbid the Yankees for outfielder Juan Soto. The Mets are expected to aggressively pursue a costly Soto contract, and if they succeed, they’d likely have to part ways with Alonso. That could open the door for the Cubs.
Alonso’s market value is projected around $175 million for six years, and while the Cubs have hesitated to make such long-term commitments, Alonso could be an exception. He’s not only a prolific home run hitter, but he’s also performed exceptionally well at Wrigley Field, where in 17 career games, he’s hit eight home runs with a .271 average and a 1.134 OPS. The Cubs are in need of a consistent power hitter to anchor their lineup, and Alonso fits that role perfectly.
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