New York Mets owner Steve Cohen has indicated that the future of first baseman Pete Alonso with the team will likely not be resolved until after the current season. Alonso, a three-time All-Star, is set to become a free agent after the World Series. Last fall, he enlisted the services of agent Scott Boras and recently agreed to a one-year contract worth $20.5 million to avoid arbitration.
Alonso, who has hit 192 home runs in his five seasons, is expected to explore his value in free agency. Cohen expressed his support for Alonso's right to do so and mentioned that discussions regarding Alonso's future with the Mets are ongoing but no decisions are imminent.
Despite a slightly lower batting average last season, Alonso remains a key player for the Mets, having hit 46 home runs and 118 RBIs. Cohen emphasized the team's desire to retain Alonso, praising his performance and popularity among fans.
The Mets have a history of securing long-term deals with their top players post free agency, as seen with Edwin Díaz and Brandon Nimmo. Cohen expressed hope for a similar outcome with Alonso, highlighting the importance of keeping him in the team's future plans.
In other MLB news, catcher Austin Nola finalized a one-year contract with the Kansas City Royals after being released by the Milwaukee Brewers. Nola, who had a modest performance last season, will earn a salary of $975,000 in the major leagues and $175,000 in the minors, with additional performance bonuses.
The Pittsburgh Pirates sealed a $77 million, five-year deal with All-Star pitcher Mitch Keller, who had a solid 2022 season. Keller, set to start the Pirates' opener in Miami, is expected to play a crucial role in the team's pitching rotation.
Left-hander Joely Rodríguez agreed to a minor league contract with the Boston Red Sox. Rodríguez, with previous stints in various MLB teams and Japan, will look to make an impact with the Red Sox after a mixed performance last season.
