Part 4/7:
The crux of this saga lies in the power of public perception and how significantly it influences the negotiation outcomes. The Mets, under owner Steve Cohen's guidance, face a unique challenge: balancing business acumen with the emotional ties fans have toward Alonzo, a fan favorite and significant power hitter in franchise history.
The narrative that has emerged from these negotiations is incredibly complex, with fans being forced to choose sides — are they Team Cohen, emphasizing shrewd financial decisions, or Team Pete, longing for the return of Alonzo? Both camps understandably have compelling arguments, leading to a polarized fan base, which affects overall morale and perception of the franchise.