Stearns' Nightmare: Josh Naylor Sets the Price for Alonso's Contract!
Stearns' Nightmare: Josh Naylor Sets the Price for Alonso's Contract!  
Podcast: The Carton Show with Craig Carton & Chris McMonigle
Published On: Mon Nov 17 2025
Description: BT & Sal go head-to-head on the major implications of Josh Naylor's reported five-year extension with the Mariners, arguing it has immediately set a floor for Pete Alonso's free-agent negotiations. BT argues Naylor's deal is a "good night for Pete," suggesting Alonso will now command a minimum of five years at a massive salary. However, BT insists the Mets should not sign him for six years, arguing Naylor offers a more well-rounded skill set (higher contact, better defense, better on the bases) compared to Pete's pure power. Sal fires back, calling Naylor a "poor man's Pete Alonso" and a "moneyball guy" who isn't needed in New York. He maintains that Alonso's proven power and clutch performance in the New York market are irreplaceable and that the Mets must re-sign him to maintain the team's core, especially behind Juan Soto. The conversation heats up as they debate whether David Stearns is overthinking the situation and what moves the Mets must make if they let Pete walk, with Cody Bellinger being the only acceptable replacement.