Slugger Pete Alonso has insisted he is “really happy” to be with the New York Mets but indicated he isn’t entirely sure what may happen a few years from now.
“I just really want to come here and really just work hard and focus on the 2023 season at hand,” Alonso told reporters Wednesday, according to Justin Tasch of the New York Post. “This is a really special group of guys. I love this team. I love representing the city of New York. I love representing the New York Mets. It’s a great place to play. I’m just really happy with where I’m at. Regarding the future, I don’t know what it holds. I’m a New York Met in 2023 and I’m really happy and really stoked to be here.”
Big-spending Mets owner Steve Cohen splashed hundreds of millions of dollars in cash this offseason to acquire talents such as three-time Cy Young Award winner Justin Verlander and Japanese ace Kodai Senga. The Mets also held onto closer Edwin Diaz, outfielder Brandon Nimmo and second baseman Jeff McNeil.
Nimmo agreed to an eight-year contract reportedly worth $162 million ahead of Christmas. In January, McNeil signed a four-year, $50 million contract extension which includes a fifth-year club option.
To compare, Alonso and the Mets avoided arbitration by agreeing to a one-year, $14.5 million deal for 2023. The 28-year-old two-time All-Star selection currently isn’t eligible for free agency until after the 2024 season.
Alonso noted on Wednesday he’s pleased the Mets paid McNeil but also isn’t “comfortable” speaking publicly about his contract situation.
“If you have any stuff, questions in that regard, you can always ask my agent,” Alonso continued.
Per ESPN stats, Alonso finished the 2022 season tied for first in all of MLB with 131 RBIs. He blasted 40 home runs and slashed .271/.352/.518, and he is adored by Mets fans for his contributions and personality:
