NASHVILLE – Edgardo Alfonzo got not only a lot more money than the Mets anticipated, but membership with the NL champs, as well.

Alfonzo signed a four-year, $26 million contract yesterday with the Giants. The Mets had proposed just a two-year, $11 million package last week before refusing to offer arbitration. The Mets told Alfonzo’s representatives they did not foresee any other club doing better than that offer.

But after a mostly dormant market, Alfonzo yesterday received a four-year, $24 million bid from San Diego before the Giants offered a better team and better package.

“That was the Mets’ decision,” Alfonzo’s agent, Peter Greenberg, said graciously not wanting to create bad blood with an organization that traded Rey Ordonez yesterday and opened shortstop for one of his clients, either stopgap Jorge Velandia or super prospect Jose Reyes.

Alfonzo also refused to criticize the Mets, saying, “I can’t say much. I’m happy with the future. The Giants gave me a great opportunity and deal.”

The Mets had been worried about Alfonzo’s declining power/run production and the condition of his back in refusing to make a more substantial offer. Giants assistant GM Ned Colletti said the Giants were comfortable with the condition of Alfonzo’s back.

“We’re happy that Alfonzo found a home,” Mets GM Steve Phillips said. “We wish him nothing but luck except on the days when the Mets come to town.”

Colletti had made an offer yesterday to Jeff Kent, who rejected it. When that occurred, the Giants turned to Alfonzo. San Francisco said now the chances of retaining Kent are “diminished.”

So Alfonzo might slide into Kent’s second base slot. But it was still possible either Kent or recent free-agent sign Ray Durham could play second, and Alfonzo would play third. He said he was comfortable with either. More pleasing is that he likely will bat second or third in a lineup ahead of Barry Bonds.