Mets fans, take a deep breath. It's been a whirlwind of a week, with the team's star players, Pete Alonso and Edwin Diaz, packing their bags and heading elsewhere. But fear not, as owner Steve Cohen is here to offer some much-needed perspective. Amid the chaos, Cohen reminds fans that the MLB offseason is still in its infancy, and there's plenty of time to rebuild and regroup.
"I understand the fans' reaction," Cohen told The Post's Jon Heyman. "The offseason is far from over, and we have the opportunity to build a strong playoff team." Cohen's words echo the sentiment of Mets president of baseball operations, David Stearns, who expressed optimism about the team's future despite the recent departures.
The Mets' strategic moves this offseason have been both intriguing and controversial. The team traded Brandon Nimmo to the Rangers in November, and on Tuesday, Diaz agreed to a three-year, $69 million contract with the Dodgers. The Post's Mike Puma revealed that Diaz's unhappiness stemmed from the organization's decision to part ways with pitching coach Jeremy Hefner. Meanwhile, the Alonso situation took an unexpected turn when the Mets failed to make a contract offer, despite teams offering more favorable terms.
Alonso's departure to the Orioles for a five-year, $155 million contract came as a shock, especially since the Mets didn't even bother making an offer. This move highlights the delicate balance between player loyalty and the team's financial constraints. As Cohen and Stearns navigate this turbulent phase, they emphasize the importance of patience and a long-term vision for the team's success.
So, Mets fans, while it's natural to feel disappointed, remember that the season is far from over. Stay tuned as the Mets continue to reshape their roster, and let's see how they rise from the ashes, stronger and more resilient than ever before.
