Striking: Pete Alonso Apologizes to Steve Cohen After Drawn-Out Heated Controversy…See Details

New York Mets star first baseman Pete Alonso issued a public apology to team owner Steve Cohen and Mets fans following a lengthy and contentious contract negotiation that had taken center stage during the offseason. The slugger, known for his prodigious home runs and fiery passion on the field, took to social media and his post-practice press conference to address the tensions that surfaced as he and the Mets front office worked to finalize terms.

Alonso, whose current contract was approaching its final year, had long been expected to receive a significant extension. However, the drawn-out nature of his negotiation, which stretched on for months, had raised questions and sparked criticism from various corners of the Mets community. The situation became even more complicated after reports surfaced that both sides were far apart on terms. Media outlets reported frequent back-and-forths and even hints of frustration from both Alonso’s camp and the Mets’ leadership.

In his apology, Alonso expressed regret over how the situation unfolded, acknowledging that the drawn-out process had caused unnecessary tension. “I owe Steve Cohen, the entire Mets organization, and the fans an apology,” Alonso said. “It wasn’t my intention to create any drama or distraction, but I understand now that I let some things get out of hand. I should have been more mindful of how this affected everyone, and I truly apologize for that.”

The negotiation, which reportedly centered around terms of a long-term contract extension, had caused ripples throughout the baseball world. Alonso, who has established himself as one of the premier power hitters in the MLB, had made it clear that he wanted to remain with the Mets long-term, but the specifics of a deal remained elusive. The Mets, who have made significant strides under Cohen’s ownership to build a championship-caliber roster, were determined to secure a fair and fiscally responsible deal.

The negotiations reached a fever pitch in the final weeks of the offseason, as spring training approached and Alonso’s status remained unresolved. Both sides were said to be at odds on the structure and total value of the deal, with Alonso reportedly seeking a contract that would place him among the highest-paid first basemen in the league. Meanwhile, the Mets were cautious about committing too much of their financial future to any one player, particularly as they also sought to improve their pitching staff and bolster other areas of need.

The protracted nature of the talks led to mounting speculation, with fans voicing their concerns on social media, frustrated by the delay and wondering whether Alonso’s future with the team was in jeopardy. For Mets fans, who had already endured years of mediocrity, the thought of losing Alonso—one of the few homegrown stars in the organization—was deeply troubling.

In his apology, Alonso went further, thanking Cohen for his patience throughout the process. “Steve is an incredible owner, and I have a ton of respect for what he’s trying to build here in New York,” Alonso continued. “He’s a great businessman and, more importantly, a great person. I’ve always wanted to be part of the Mets’ future, and I’m grateful that we were able to get something done, even if it took longer than expected.”

Mets owner Steve Cohen, who has been heavily involved in efforts to rebuild the team into a championship contender, issued a statement in response to Alonso’s apology. “I have a lot of respect for Pete,” Cohen said. “He’s been a tremendous part of this team and this city, and I’m glad we could work out a deal that works for both sides. Negotiations can be tough, but in the end, we’re all on the same team, and I’m excited for what’s to come.”