In the latest chapter of the contract saga surrounding Pete Alonso, Scott Boras, the MLB super-agent representing the New York Mets’ slugging first baseman, has publicly issued a defiant statement in defense of his client’s contract demands. Addressing Mets owner Steve Cohen’s recent comments about managing payroll responsibly, Boras made it clear that Alonso deserves a deal commensurate with his immense contributions to the franchise.

“Pete Alonso is an important part of this team, and his contract has to reflect that,” Boras told reporters during a press conference on Monday. “You’re talking about a player who has consistently been one of the most productive power hitters in baseball and a leader on and off the field. His value cannot be understated.”

The statement comes as the Mets face mounting pressure to lock Alonso into a long-term deal. The first baseman, who turns 30 next season, is entering his final year of arbitration eligibility and could hit the open market as a free agent after the 2025 season if no extension is agreed upon. According to insiders, Alonso’s camp is seeking a contract in the range of $300 million over 10 years, numbers that Boras argued are fair given Alonso’s track record and the current market trends.

A Proven Commodity

Since debuting with the Mets in 2019, Alonso has been a cornerstone of the franchise. Known as “The Polar Bear” for his imposing presence and prodigious power, he broke Aaron Judge’s rookie home run record by smashing 53 home runs in his debut season. Over the past five seasons, Alonso has averaged 40 homers and 110 RBIs per year, making him one of the most consistent power hitters in the game. He has also been a two-time All-Star and won two Home Run Derby titles, solidifying his status as a fan favorite.

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Boras highlighted these accomplishments while making the case for why Alonso deserves to be paid like one of baseball’s elite. “You look at what Pete has done for the Mets since the day he arrived, and it’s undeniable that he’s been one of the best at his position,” Boras said. “He’s not just a player; he’s a brand, an identity for this team. That kind of value demands recognition.”

A Test for Steve Cohen

The Mets’ owner, known for his deep pockets and willingness to spend big, has already committed significant resources to building a competitive roster. Over the past few years, the team has signed marquee players such as Francisco Lindor and Max Scherzer to lucrative contracts, making them one of the highest-payroll teams in the league.

However, Cohen has recently emphasized a need for fiscal discipline, hinting that the team may be more selective about long-term deals moving forward. This stance has fueled speculation that the Mets could explore trading Alonso rather than risk losing him for nothing in free agency. Rumors of Alonso’s availability swirled during the offseason, though Cohen and Mets general manager David Stearns both downplayed the likelihood of a trade.

Boras, however, was quick to counter this narrative. “The idea of trading Pete Alonso should be a non-starter for a team that’s serious about winning,” he said. “Players like Pete don’t come around often. He’s the kind of talent you build around, not the kind you let walk away.”

Market Dynamics

Boras also pointed to recent contracts signed by other star first basemen, including Freddie Freeman’s six-year, $162 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers and Matt Olson’s eight-year, $168 million contract with the Atlanta Braves. While those deals set benchmarks for the position, Boras argued that Alonso’s unique profile as a power hitter with unparalleled consistency warrants a higher figure.

“Pete’s power numbers and his ability to deliver in big moments make him one of the most valuable assets in the game,” Boras said. “When you look at the trajectory of his career and the market for elite players, it’s clear that he deserves to be paid accordingly.”

The Road Ahead

As the Mets prepare for the upcoming season, Alonso’s contract situation looms large. While both sides have expressed a desire to continue their partnership, the gap between their valuations could complicate negotiations. For his part, Alonso has remained focused on baseball, avoiding public comment on the matter and letting Boras handle the business side of things.

Still, Boras’s public remarks indicate that Alonso’s camp is prepared to push hard for a deal that reflects his market value. Whether Steve Cohen and the Mets are willing to meet those demands remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Pete Alonso’s future in Queens is far from guaranteed.

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