In the end, it was an old-fashioned sit-down between the principles that helped finish the deal that brought Pete Alonso back to the Mets.
On Tuesday, team owner Steve Cohen flew to Tampa — where Alonso resides — and along with president of baseball operations David Stearns, met with Alonso and the first baseman’s representative, Scott Boras. For about three hours the group convened at Stovall House, a social club to which Alonso belongs.
A day later, Alonso agreed to a two-year contract worth $54 million for a return to the Mets. The deal includes an opt-out after the first season and $10 million signing bonus.
Alonso, according to sources, had not spoken directly with Cohen during his free agency prior to their meeting in Tampa. The sit-down served the purpose of Cohen and Stearns assuring to the slugger that he was still wanted, while providing their perspective.