Mets’ Brandon Nimmo, Francisco Lindor discuss Pete Alonso’s free agency, Juan Soto signing

Mets stars Brandon Nimmo and Francisco Lindor took part in Amazin’ Day at Citi Field on Saturday and spoke with media about the team’s two biggest offseason storylines:

Pete Alonso‘s free agency and Juan Soto signing up to play in Queens.

“I would love to see Pete back with us,” Nimmo told reporters. “But I also understand that I don’t make those decisions and that’s between Pete and our front office and David [Stearns] and Steve [Cohen]. From what I understand, there have been a lot of talks between them. I’m still hopeful that we’ll sign him.

“Even if so, we’re really happy about what we’ve done this offseason. I think we’ve made our team a better team. Obviously, I love Pete. I’ve been with him for a long time so would love to see him back. And so we’ll see how that all transpires in the coming days and weeks.”

Lindor was asked if he’s “surprised” Alonso isn’t back with the team, saying he believes the first baseman is and should take his time making a big decision like this.

“Surprised? I can’t be surprised with somebody’s decision. I mean, it’s his decision,” Lindor said. “Pete should maximize. Pete should make the best decision for him and his family. It’s a tough question because it’s something that, ‘Am I surprised with someone’s thoughts?’

“Pete’s been here since I’ve been here, he’s been here before me. So yeah, it would be different if he’s gone somewhere else. Yeah, it’ll be different for sure. I think he should take his time. I think he should make the best decision for himself and not feel like he’s rushed into a decision, and I’m sure he will. Pete’s smart. He’s going to get input from his wife and his family and then make the best decision for himself. As he should, he deserves it.”

Lindor also said he’s messaged Alonso, saying, “Thinking about you, hope you’re doing well.”

While Alonso has yet to sign with a club, SNY MLB Insider Andy Martino reported after the Mets signed Jesse Winker that they expect Alonso will sign elsewhere. Martino reported on Jan. 23 that talks between Alonso and the Toronto Blue Jays are “advancing,” although, they are “not done yet and no guarantee that it gets there.”

On signing Soto

Lindor and Nimmo were later asked about their reactions to seeing the news Soto was signing with the Mets, and both expressed their excitement for him to join the team.

“I was happy and then I was like ‘damn,’ it’s great,” Lindor said. “I was happy for him and his family as well, and for the organization. I can’t want to be a teammate of his for the next seven years and then can’t wait to watch him from my house.”

“Very excited, very excited to be with Soto,” Nimmo said. “Obviously, I’ve played against him for a long time now. Incredible hitter, incredible athlete. So glad that we won that bidding war and brought him to the orange and blue. I’m excited. He’s going to be a presence in the middle of our lineup and it’s gonna be really exciting to see what he can do.”

Winker also talked about the Mets signing Soto and is looking forward to having a front-row seat to watch him play and learn from the superstar.

“Everything he’s done in his career speaks for itself,” Winker said. “Tremendous player, electric player. I’m looking forward to seeing how he works day-to-day. Like you said, he’s left-handed and he’s one of the best hitters in baseball. Getting to see that from a really good seat will be cool.

“Obviously, you’re combining him with Lindor, who’s coming off an MVP-type season as well. It’s going to be really fun to watch both of them. I’ve learned so much from Francisco, so I’m grateful to be here for sure.”