Part 2/8:
Cohen expressed a belief throughout the negotiations that Pete Alonso held more value to the Mets than to any other team. Notably, Alonso had earlier turned down a robust seven-year, $358 million contract, indicating that his expectations for a lucrative deal may have exceeded the current market's reality. This assessment highlights the sobering contrast between Alonso’s hopes and the financial landscape the Mets were operating in, particularly after new management had taken over.