Pete Alonso is poised to enter free agency after this season, unless the Mets sign him before then.AP
The Mets’ first baseman, Pete Alonso, is entering the final year of his contract, and owner Steve Cohen does not want to lose the slugger in free agency.
Cohen made it obvious in a sample clip of the Mets’ new podcast, ‘Meet at the Apple,’ which debuts on Saturday, that he wants to keep Alonso beyond this season.
It appears that Cohen is also willing to spend whatever it takes.
“He’s an important part of our team today and hopefully in the future,” he said. “We know the fans care deeply about him, and I’m not tone-deaf.” I completely understand the fans’ affection for Pete.”
Cohen continued, “I hope he hits 55 home runs and makes it difficult for me in free agency.” That is an excellent conclusion in my opinion.”
Alonso, 29, had a successful season, hitting 46 home runs and earning his third All-Star selection. But he also batted.217 is his lowest batting average in five years with the Mets.
His power and durability will make him an appealing target for other teams when he hits the open market, perhaps upping his price if the Mets do not sign him before then. Alonso seldom spends time on the injured list, having participated in 94 percent of the Mets’ games over the last five seasons, and has 192 home runs in 684 career games.
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