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The inclusion of deferred payments is a central issue in the negotiations, particularly due to the significant implications it carries for both Alonzo's earnings and the Mets' financial planning. While deferred money allows the Mets to manage their immediate payroll impact on the luxury tax, it also means Alonzo could potentially be waiting years to see a substantial portion of his earnings.
This complex situation leaves Alonzo at a crossroads — accept a lucrative, albeit deferred offer from his current team or seek a more straightforward deal elsewhere, which Scott Boras, his agent, is likely pushing for. There's an air of frustration surrounding how the negotiations have dragged on, with Alonzo possibly feeling undervalued given the recent contracts awarded to top players.