Steve Cohen Hints at Alonso Return as Blue Jays’ Offer Hits Snag
Mets Keep the Door Open for Slugger Amid Toronto’s Stalled Talks
New York Mets owner Steve Cohen has not ruled out a potential reunion with free-agent first baseman Pete Alonso, even as the team prepares to move forward with or without him. While negotiations between Alonso and the Toronto Blue Jays appeared to gain momentum last week, a reported stumbling block in contract discussions may have given the Mets an unexpected opening.
Blue Jays’ Offer Stalls Over Deferred Money
According to Andy Martino of SNY, talks between Alonso’s camp and the Blue Jays had been progressing until a key issue emerged: deferred payments. Toronto, known for structuring deals with significant deferrals—as seen in their recent agreement with outfielder Anthony Santander—may have applied a similar approach to Alonso’s contract.
Santander’s five-year, $92.5 million contract reportedly defers more than half of its total value, a structure that may not sit well with Alonso and his representatives. One social media user likened the situation to the Blue Jays “fumbling on the 10-yard line,” a sentiment Martino agreed with. If Alonso’s camp is unwilling to accept Toronto’s proposed terms, it could open the door for the Mets to re-engage in talks.
Cohen’s Cautious Approach to Alonso’s Future
Cohen, speaking at the Mets’ “Amazin’ Day” fan event, acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Alonso’s future.
“I don’t like what’s being presented to us,” Cohen said, referring to negotiations with Alonso’s agent, Scott Boras. “Maybe that changes. Certainly, I’ll always stay flexible. If it stays this way, I think we’re going to have to get used to the fact that we’re going to have to go forward with the existing players.”
While Cohen’s remarks suggest hesitation, the door remains open for Alonso’s return—if the terms align with the Mets’ financial strategy.
Luxury Tax Considerations and Payroll Limits
One major factor in the Mets’ decision-making process is their payroll and its implications for the competitive balance tax (CBT).
Martino reports that Cohen and Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns agree it would be “unwise to venture too far past the top luxury tax threshold” of $301 million. Even without Alonso, the team’s payroll—bolstered by the recent signing of reliever Ryne Stanek—is projected to land between $310 million and $320 million.
This financial constraint means the Mets must weigh whether bringing Alonso back at a high price aligns with their long-term vision.
Alonso’s Market and Agent Turmoil
Meanwhile, other MLB teams and even rival agents have taken notice of Alonso’s situation. According to SportsNet’s Ben Nicholson-Smith, MLB agents have recently been advised not to reach out to Alonso directly, a move that typically signals a player’s dissatisfaction with their current representation.
With Alonso’s free agency still in flux, his future remains uncertain. Whether he re-signs with the Mets, finalizes a deal with the Blue Jays, or explores other options, one thing is clear—his market remains as intriguing as ever.