The Atlanta Braves appear ready to move on from Marcell Ozuna after an incredibly up-and-down tenure. It isn't clear whether the aging slugger regressed due to a hip injury he dealt with throughout the 2025 season, or simply regressed back to the version of the slugger that had many Braves fans ready to turn the page at the start of the 2023 season. Atlanta is going to be in the market for a new designated hitter, and a surprising fit might've just presented in the way of a former division rival.
New York Mets slugger Pete Alonso revealed after Sunday's season finale that he has opted out of his contract, per ESPN, putting the accomplished power hitter back in free agency. Alonso drove in 126 batters while adding 38 homers and a .272/.347/.524 slash line in 162 games this season, so it's easy to see why Alonso is willing to risk hitting free agency if it means a huge payday.
As happy as the Braves would be to see Alonso leave the NL East, they'd also be wise to contact the Mets' free agent if it means improving their lineup.
Braves Should Target Mets' Pete Alonso to Replace Marcell Ozuna
Assuming that Alonso is frustrated with the Mets' direction and wants a change of scenery, the Braves should be willing to make an offer. At the same time, the Mets' signing of Juan Soto last year proved that money is no object for ownership, meaning any offer the Braves put together is going to be matched if the Mets truly want Alonso to return. Still, that doesn't mean Atlanta can't entertain the idea.
The Braves could lure Alonso with their incredible young core and the chance to play with one of the league's best players in Ronald Acuña Jr. If Alonso, Matt Olson, Austin Riley, and Acuña managed to stay healthy and live up to expectations, there is zero question that elite numbers will follow and manager Brian Snitker would have one of the MLB's best batting orders on his hands.
Since the start of the 2021 season, Alonso ranks fourth in the Majors when it comes to HRs (195), second in RBIs (557), and 24th in walks (323). It's easy to imagine the type of impact he could have.
Signing Alonso would also help weaken a Mets team that finished the 2025 season ahead of the Braves despite their late-season collapse. While some Atlanta fans might be hesitant to bring in the rival, he has one of the few truly great power bats that could turn the Braves from a sub-.500 club into a legitimate playoff threat.
When it comes to the financial concerns, the Braves can move some money around, namely trading catcher Sean Murphy and any other veterans who've worn out their welcome. Alonso is exactly what the Braves are missing, and the sacrifices needed to bring him to Atlanta will be worth it if his stint includes a World Series run.
Needless to say, the Mets free agent's offseason is something that Braves fans will monitor closely.