The Cubs will finally have an opportunity to land this coveted superstar

The Chicago Cubs have been mentioned as the most prominent suitor for New York Mets' first baseman Pete Alonso since the Major League Baseball Trade Deadline last season.

The Cubs reportedly had brief discussions with the Mets at the trade deadline in 2023 regarding a potential deal for Alonso but the belief was that the two teams would revisit talks during the off-season.

At the start of the off-season, Alonso was thought to be a priority for the Cubs but as the months dragged on, it's become clear that the Mets are trying to contend in 2024. The Mets' goal for contention to start the season all but rules out the possibility of Alonso being traded but there is still a decision to be made.

Alonso is set to become a free agent after the season and the expectation is that he will indeed reach free agency as there have been no contract talks between the two sides.

Of course, this also may be setting the stage for the Mets to move Alonso at the trade deadline this season. If the Mets are unable to keep pace with the Philadelphia Phillies and Atlanta Braves during the first half of the 2024 season, a second consecutive season where they move expiring contracts at the deadline would seem likely.

It's also entirely possible that the Cubs may not have a need for Alonso at the deadline. If Michael Busch lives up to the expectations of being able to hit at the Major League level, the Cubs will have a long-term answer at first base. That may lessen the urgency that the Cubs would potentially have for Alonso at the deadline.

At the very least, the Cubs will finally be in a position to land Alonso next off-season when he reaches free agency. For a team that has lacked a consistent power threat in their lineup for the past two and a half seasons, Alonso would certainly check that box for the Cubs.

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