![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Pete-Alonso-2.jpg?width=600)
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Pete-Alonso-2.jpg?width=600)
The Pete Alonso-Mets saga is finally over! Alonso, who was looking for a long-term contract, ended up signing a 2-year $54 million contract with Steve Cohen’s Mets. This may come as shocking to many since the Blue Jays had the most lucrative offer on their table for Polar Beer. The Jays, desperate for a power bat after a lackluster offensive showing in 2024, believed Alonso could anchor their lineup. But since Alonso’s had his heart in Queens he chose to stay in CitiField. And the Jays, who were desperate to land Alonso, got literally NOTHING. Now, a Mets legend has seized the moment to rub salt in the wound.
This failure is particularly painful for Toronto, given their string of missed opportunities. They were outbid for Shohei Ohtani, lost Juan Soto, and despite being one of the most aggressive suitors for Alonso, came up empty. Though the five-year deal with Anthony Santander provides some offensive help, he might not have the same game-changing impact.
As news of Alonso’s return to the Mets spread, an ex-MLB third baseman, Todd Frazier, took it to mock the Blue Jays. In a recent Foul Territory video, he implied that Toronto never stood a real chance, suggesting Alonso’s heart was always in New York. “If I’m the Blue Jays sitting there thinking, I could have got this guy for 2 years, 54 million, oh my god, they could have easily done a lot more than that and still been fine with it… I think that’s Pete, he didn’t want to leave. I think he’s comfortable there.”
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![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/Pete-Alonso-4.jpg?width=150&blur=15)
Now, the Blue Jays must shift gears. Securing Vladimir Guerrero Jr. with a long-term extension remains a priority. And his impending free agency in 2025 makes securing his future imperative. If the team falters in acquiring another hitter they may shift their attention towards strengthening their pitching lineup or aiming for offensive improvements instead.
Meanwhile, the Mets have reinforced their position as a National League powerhouse. With Alonso re-signed and Juan Soto in the mix, New York boasts one of the most dangerous lineups. Steve Cohen’s aggressive approach continues to pay off, leaving teams like the Blue Jays wondering what more they could have done.
Cohen never wanted to lose Alonso
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Cohen never wanted to sign Alonso on a long-term contract. This is a truth. But he did not want to lose his home run machine either. Alonso, who has been averaging 39+ homers a season in the last four years for the Mets, has been the most productive asset for the Mets. So knowing what Alonso brings to the table, Cohen was not willing to let go of his certified hitter.
Per John Flanigan of SNY, Cohen was frustrated with the “long and exhausting conversation.” This Tuesday, the $21.3 billion owner called for an in-person meeting between himself, Mets President David Stearns, and Alonso in Tampa and finally convinced Alonso to sign the extension.
“I really wanted to humanize the negotiations. I wanted him to hear it straight from me — two human beings having a real conversation. I was clear, I told him, I want you back. We want you back,” the Mets owner said.
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With Juan Soto, Francisco Lindor, and now Pete Alonso by their side, the Mets’ batting lineup is as strong as ever. Only time will tell whether Cohen’s $1 billion-plus spend will be worth this season or not. What do you think? Let us know in the comments below!
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Debate
Did the Blue Jays overestimate their appeal, or is Alonso's loyalty to the Mets unbreakable?
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Did the Blue Jays overestimate their appeal, or is Alonso's loyalty to the Mets unbreakable?
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