The future of Pete Alonso with the New York Mets remains uncertain as the star first baseman recently rejected a substantial contract offer, stirring discussions among fans and executives alike.
During the recent Amazin' Day FanFest held at Citi Field, Mets owner Steve Cohen revealed the team's frustration over Alonso's decision to turn down a three-year deal valued between $68 million and $70 million. 'We've made a significant offer to Pete,' Cohen stated. 'I don't like the structures presented to us. I think it’s highly asymmetric against us.'
These comments have sparked intense discussions on social media, with many fans supporting Cohen's honesty and criticizing Alonso for not accepting what they viewed as a fair offer. One fan expressed their frustration, saying, 'Let him walk, we have enough talent and it’s time to develop the people we have.' Conversely, others appreciated Cohen's candidness, remarking, 'That is about the most honest answer you'll ever hear from an owner, it’s why he’s the best owner in all of sports.'
Alonso, who has been with the Mets since being drafted by the organization in 2016 and setting several records, feels like part of Mets history. He made his big-league debut in 2019, hitting 53 home runs to set the MLB rookie record. With 226 home runs to his name, he ranks third on the Mets' all-time list and is regarded as one of the club's most beloved players. Despite this legacy, the discourse surrounding his potential departure from the team continues to grow.
During the fan event, Cohen emphasized the challenging nature of negotiations, stating, 'This has been an exhausting conversation. Soto was tough; this is worse.' The mention of Juan Soto, who signed with the Mets for 15 years at $765 million, highlights Alonso's situation's complexity as both players share the same agent, Scott Boras. This connection has left fans and analysts speculating whether Boras is driving Alonso to explore other options aggressively.
Notably, Cohen was not alone on stage as president of baseball operations David Stearns joined him. Stearns echoed Cohen's sentiments about Alonso's right to examine the market, saying, 'Pete, as a free agent, deserves the right — has the right — to see what’s out there.' This acknowledgment of Alonso's value and their desire to see him return was met with mixed reactions from the audience, reflecting the complex feelings surrounding his potential departure.
If Alonso moves on, the Mets face the pressing question of who could replace him at first base. Manager Carlos Mendoza has outlined plans and noted the importance of depth at the position, hinting at internal options such as Mark Vientos and Brett Baty, both of whom are currently transitioning to first base. Mendoza remarked, 'We’ve got options... we wanted to get ahead of the game.'
The urgency surrounding Alonso's decision is evident as spring training approaches, with teams like the Toronto Blue Jays showing interest. 'I will never say no. There’s always the possibility,' Cohen concluded tentatively, leaving fans with some hope.
Despite the hurdles, Alonso's agent has historically delayed negotiations beyond conventional timelines, as seen with previous players. Baldly, Cohen stated, 'If it stays this way, we may have to move forward with existing players,' signaling the urgency of the situation.
Fans, having chanted 'We want Pete!' throughout the event, may grapple with the reality of his absence if he signs elsewhere. While Cohen and the Mets remain hopeful for his return, the football surrounding Alonso's next move continues to build momentum as teams throw their hats in the ring leading up to the new season. The chapter of Alonso's time with the Mets is poised to enter its most pivotal stage, with the outcome uncertain until the final agreements are penned.