New York Mets owner Steve Cohen recently discussed the contract status of star first baseman Pete Alonso, stating that he does not expect to sign a long-term contract with him before the end of the season. Alonso currently has a $20.5 million, one-year contract and has the potential to become a free agent after the World Series. Despite this, Cohen emphasized that there have been no discussions regarding a new contract, indicating that it may be in Alonso’s best interest to focus on performing well on the field without distractions.
Alonso, who was named the NL Rookie of the Year in 2019 and is a three-time All-Star, has an impressive career statistics with a .251 batting average, 192 homers, 498 RBIs, and a .870 OPS in five major league seasons. Last fall, Alonso hired Scott Boras as his agent, known for advocating that his clients explore free agency to maximize their value. Cohen expressed optimism that the Mets’ positive relationship with Boras could potentially benefit the team in future contract negotiations.
Cohen highlighted the Mets’ previous successful contract negotiations, including a $102 million, five-year deal with closer Edwin Diaz and a $162 million, eight-year contract with outfielder Brandon Nimmo before the 2022 season. Despite a disappointing finish in the NL East last season, the Mets are looking to bounce back and make a strong push for the playoffs. Cohen acknowledged the team’s ability to utilize resources in free agency efficiently, creating a powerful combination with their existing roster.
Despite challenges such as injuries to key players, including top starter Kodai Senga, Cohen remains optimistic about the Mets’ chances of reaching the playoffs. He pointed out improvements in the team’s defense compared to the previous season, emphasizing the importance of minimizing defensive errors. Cohen expressed confidence in the team’s competitiveness and overall outlook for the upcoming season, noting that the club appears strong and well-prepared.
Steve Cohen’s recent comments shed light on the New York Mets’ approach to contract negotiations and team strategy for the upcoming season. While the status of Pete Alonso’s contract remains uncertain, the Mets are focused on building a competitive roster and making a playoff push. Cohen’s positive outlook and commitment to utilizing resources effectively bode well for the team’s future success. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how the Mets navigate contract talks and work towards achieving their goal of postseason contention.
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