The New York Mets signed superstar Juan Soto to begin the offseason. Since then, they’ve made more roster additions, but slugger Pete Alonso remains a free agent.

While there’s still a chance Alonso will return to Queens in 2025, the Mets need to have a plan in place in case Alonso goes elsewhere.

Chinmay Sathe of Essentially Sports recently predicted the Mets would swing a blockbuster trade for St. Louis Cardinals infielder Nolan Arenado. St. Louis is reportedly trying to shop its star infielder.

“And now, the team is eyeing another star player: Eight-time All-Star Platinum Glover, Nolan Arenado,” Sathe wrote. “While Soto’s inclusion has already boosted the Mets’ lineup, adding a player of Nolan’s caliber would further push their chances of a title. After all, Arenado is regarded as one of the best third basemen in the league-he donned the St. Louis Cardinals last season; his powerful bat combined with his Gold Glove defense would solidify the infield and free up resources for other areas of need.

“However, there is a certain hurdle for acquiring Arenado: his contract terms. Nolan Arenado is owed approximately $74 million over the next three seasons, which might alarm other teams but not the Mets. But under Cohen’s strategic leadership, the Mets’ financial flexibility allows them to secure him comfortably.”

Bringing back Alonso should be the top priority, but if New York can’t come to terms on a deal to secure him, this trade idea makes a lot of sense.

The Mets could likely acquire him for next to no prospect capital if they’re willing to take on a large chunk of Arenado’s contract.

Sliding Mark Vientos to first base while Arenado mans the hot corner would be a big upgrade over what the Mets have on the roster right now.