The New York Mets had a busy 2024 offseason, making headlines with their high-profile acquisition of Juan Soto. The team committed a record $765 million to secure the five-time Silver Slugger Award winner, but at the same time, negotiations with their own star, Pete Alonso, proved to be more complex. While fans passionately chanted “We want Pete,” the organization had to take a more calculated approach to his contract.
Team owner Steve Cohen openly addressed the challenging negotiations, describing them as even tougher than the Soto deal. Despite prolonged discussions, both sides ultimately found common ground without major compromises. Although it may have seemed from the outside that Alonso was not given the priority he deserved, Cohen clarified that the process was purely business-related rather than personal.
After months of back and forth, the Mets and Alonso reached an agreement, putting any speculation about bad blood to rest. Cohen, speaking on the New York Mets show, explained that the complexities of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) played a role, as receiving a qualifying offer can impact a player’s market value. Alonso, like several others in the league, found himself affected by this system.
Cohen emphasized that the team had thoroughly evaluated Alonso’s value by comparing him to other top first basemen. While they initially held firm on their offer, they eventually presented him with both two- and three-year contract options. Alonso opted for a two-year, $54 million deal, ensuring his continued presence with the team.
In a rare move for a team owner, Cohen personally flew to Tampa with David Stearns to meet with Alonso before the final decision. He felt it was important to speak directly with the player, acknowledging his contributions to the franchise and giving him the respect he deserved. While such meetings typically involve agents, Cohen noted that super-agent Scott Boras remained silent, allowing Alonso to take control of the discussion.
Meanwhile, Soto, the team’s blockbuster acquisition, has also expressed admiration for Alonso, describing him as one of the most impressive players he has encountered. With both stars now in the fold, the Mets are looking ahead with optimism.
As Alonso returns to Queens, the focus shifts to his performance in the upcoming season. Will he have an improved year? Fans will be watching closely to see how the Mets’ offseason moves play out on the field.