Pete Alonso, the star first baseman for the New York Mets, has ended his free agency experience with a return to the team he wanted to play for all along. Alonso signed a two-year contract worth $54 million earlier this month, after a prolonged saga that included public comments from team owner Steve Cohen and an in-person meeting with Cohen and president of baseball operations David Stearns.
Alonso, a six-time All-Star, initially sought a long-term deal but was unable to secure one due to his age and perceived lack of value on defense. However, he remained committed to re-signing with the Mets, citing the team’s best dialogue throughout the offseason as a major factor in his decision.
The new contract includes an opt-out clause after this season, allowing Alonso to test the market for a long-term deal if desired. Alonso expressed his happiness with the agreement, stating that it was “it” for him and that he is committed to doing right by the team and its fans.
With Alonso back on board, the Mets will now feature Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto hitting in front of their new first baseman. The team’s lineup is expected to be a key factor in Alonso’s ability to reverse his regression from the past two seasons and secure a long-term deal.
For Alonso, re-signing with the Mets represents an opportunity to be part of a special franchise moment. “To be a part of this franchise in that way,” he said, “it’d be really special.” The 30-year-old first baseman is now set to enter his 7th season with the team and will look to build on his recent career lows while pushing the market forward as a dominant force at the plate.
Source: https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/43892897/pete-alonso-home-mets-offseason-negotiations