A baseball insider regarded the Boston Red Sox as the primary challenger to the New York Mets for slugger Pete Alonso.

Alonso is hitting free agency once again, though he has produced another stellar season full of home runs and memorable moments for the Mets.

More news: Phillies Open to Trading Brandon Marsh, Alec Bohm: Report

He is still seeking a long-term commitment from a team, and whether it is the Mets or another team, the first baseman is intent on securing long-term financial security rather than sign another short-term deal that would have him prove his worth again.

The Mets are seeking improvements across the diamond, though Alonso does not fit that new vision for the team. He is a poor fielder who offers limited range at first base.

Pete Alonso

Still, he is a fan favorite and beloved as one of the franchise’s faces, making him somewhat irreplaceable, even if he is not a natural fit on the team.

While Alonso seems destined to remain a Met, it is far from a sure thing, and according to MLB insider Jon Heyman, the Red Sox may raise the price for the first baseman.

“The Mets are the #1 suitor. It’s going to take some time, but the top threat besides the Mets is the Red Sox,” Heyman said in a live stream for Bleacher Report.

More news: Kyle Schwarber Reportedly Has Surprise Suitor in Free Agent Sweepstakes

Kyle Schwarber likely impacts Alonso’s market availability, adding another top slugger to free agency. However, Alonso is notably younger and can still play defense to a certain extent, while Schwarber has been a full-time designated hitter for some time.

The Red Sox need some pop in their lineup, and they always tend to spend money in free agency, tackling their most significant needs with high-profile additions.

They have been linked to both Schwarber and Alonso, two of the best power hitters in baseball. Boston also needs starting pitching help and bullpen upgrades, but they can’t forget their lineup.

More news: MLB Insider Reveals Pete Alonso Impact of Mets’ Brandon Nimmo Trade

For all the latest MLB news and rumors, head over to Newsweek Sports.