Pete Alonso Joins Orioles in $155 Million Deal, Leaving Mets Fans Reeling

Star first baseman Pete Alonso has signed with the Baltimore Orioles. The deal is worth $155 million over five years. The move ends his seven-year tenure with the New York Mets. It was first reported this week, sending shockwaves through the MLB offseason.

This significant free-agent acquisition dramatically alters the American League landscape. It also sparked immediate and intense backlash from the Mets fanbase. Many are directing frustration towards team owner Steve Cohen for not retaining the popular slugger.

Mets Owner Addresses Fan Fury Over Alonso Departure

Steve Cohen acknowledged the disappointed reaction from supporters. He stated he understands the fans’ perspective completely. Cohen also pointed out that the offseason is still ongoing for team improvements.

The financial terms of Alonso’s contract with Baltimore are substantial. This investment signals the Orioles’ serious intent to contend. For the Mets, it marks the loss of a homegrown star and clubhouse leader. Team officials had indicated a shift in strategic planning, according to reports from ESPN.

Alonso’s production has been consistently powerful. He is a five-time All-Star and former National League Rookie of the Year. His clutch hitting, including key postseason home runs, cemented his legacy in New York. His absence creates a major hole in the Mets’ lineup and identity.

Emotional Farewell from Alonso’s Wife Highlights Human Side of Move

The personal side of the transition was captured by Alonso’s wife, Haley. She shared a lengthy, emotional goodbye to New York on social media. She posted a throwback photo of a dirt-covered Alonso after his 2019 debut game.

Haley Alonso described falling in love with New York City and its passionate fans. She thanked supporters for loving her husband during his time with the Mets. Her heartfelt note underscored the deep personal connections formed over seven seasons.

This human element makes the business decision harder for many fans to accept. The response highlights how franchise players become intertwined with a city’s identity. The Orioles, however, gain a proven middle-of-the-order bat and a veteran presence. Analysts see this as a major step in their ongoing competitive rise.

The Pete Alonso contract with Baltimore reshapes the power dynamics in the AL East. His departure leaves a significant void for the Mets both on the field and in the hearts of their community.

Thought you’d like to know

Q1: How much is Pete Alonso’s new contract?

Pete Alonso’s deal with the Baltimore Orioles is for five years. The total value is $155 million. This averages to $31 million per season.

Q2: Why did the Mets let Pete Alonso leave?

The Mets’ decision appears linked to long-term roster strategy and financial planning. Owner Steve Cohen acknowledged the fan anger but suggested the team’s offseason work is not finished. Reports indicated a possible shift in how the franchise values long-term commitments to power hitters.

Q3: What did Pete Alonso’s wife say about the move?

Haley Alonso posted an emotional thank-you to Mets fans online. She shared a nostalgic photo and wrote about their love for New York. She emphasized how much Pete cared for the team and the city.

Q4: How good was Pete Alonso with the Mets?

Alonso was a cornerstone player for New York. He won the 2019 NL Rookie of the Year award and made five All-Star teams. He also hit many memorable clutch home runs, including in the postseason.

Q5: Are the Orioles now World Series contenders with Alonso?

Adding a hitter of Alonso’s caliber significantly boosts Baltimore’s lineup. It immediately makes them a more formidable threat in the American League. They are widely viewed as a serious contender for the pennant.