In a high-stakes negotiation duel, baseball agent Scott Boras found himself outmatched as his client, first baseman Pete Alonso, inked a two-year deal with the New York Mets. The standoff between Mets owner Steve Cohen and Boras had been ongoing, with Alonso seeking a substantial long-term contract befitting his status as a top power hitter. Despite turning down a lucrative extension offer earlier, Alonso’s hopes for a big payday with Boras representing him began to fade as the market failed to meet expectations.
As doubts about Alonso’s future offensive impact lingered and a lackluster season further clouded his prospects, the Mets made a final offer of a three-year, $70 million deal. Boras and Alonso initially hesitated, but eventually agreed to a two-year, $54 million contract with an opt-out clause after the upcoming season.
For the Mets, retaining Alonso is a significant victory, bolstering their lineup and chances for a deep postseason run. Cohen’s firm stance on the contract negotiations signals a shift in the team’s approach, emphasizing financial responsibility while securing key players for success on the field. Alonso’s return is expected to energize both the team and the fanbase, setting the stage for a competitive season ahead.
On the other hand, Boras, known for his adept negotiation skills, faced criticism for Alonso’s more modest deal compared to initial expectations. The outcome highlights the unpredictable nature of free agency and the complexities of player-agent dynamics in professional sports. Despite the challenges, Alonso’s tenure with the Mets continues, offering a renewed opportunity for success and mutual growth.
The result is a win in terms of money – sure, $30 million per year is a substantial amount – but it serves as a reminder that Boras’ tactic of waiting out teams does not always yield success. Last winter, four clients of Boras – Cody Bellinger, Blake Snell, Matt Chapman, and Jordan Montgomery – held out until late in the offseason before signing deals. All four ended up settling for short-term contracts with opt-outs included. Alex Bregman, another Boras client, remains unsigned as pitchers and catchers are set to report. While the Soto megadeal was historic and impressive, it’s hard to view the situation with Alonso as anything but a loss for Boras.
For Alonso, the outcome is not ideal but not catastrophic. He has a strong attachment to being a Met, avoiding the need to relocate. Earning $30 million this year, he holds the second-highest average annual value ever for a first baseman. If he performs exceptionally well this season, he can opt out and try his luck in the next winter’s free-agent market, which is projected to be less competitive.
However, as time passes, Alonso’s standing may suffer. Even a stellar 2025 season may not sway teams’ evaluations. He has already sacrificed over $100 million in potential earnings. Despite being one of MLB’s most consistent players – ranking second in games played since his debut – injuries remain an unpredictable threat. There are no guarantees in this regard.
A two-year, $54 million deal for a player of Alonso’s caliber seems incongruous. Yet, the fact that a more satisfactory offer did not materialize speaks volumes. The landscape of the game has shifted, with players now being compensated based on projected future performance rather than past achievements, track records, and production. Alonso’s impressive history holds less weight compared to the uncertainties surrounding his future potential.
