Former Mets star Darryl Strawberry believes Pete Alonso will come to regret his choice to leave the Mets this offseason for the Baltimore Orioles. The slugging first baseman, who became the franchise’s all-time home run leader last season, accepted a five-year, $155 million contract with Baltimore after opting out of his Mets deal.
Strawberry Reflects on His Own Career Decision
In an interview with the New York Post, Strawberry revealed his shock at Alonso’s move. He emphasized how Alonso could have set numerous offensive records with the Mets and cautioned that sometimes players don’t appreciate their position until it’s too late. Strawberry drew from his own experience, recalling his 1990 decision to leave the Mets for the Dodgers on a five-year, $22.5 million contract. He has openly expressed regret about leaving the Mets, warning Alonso might feel similarly in the future.
I was really shocked that Pete would leave New York for Baltimore,
Strawberry said.
Pete could have broken all the records and could have been on top of every offensive category for this organization and then sometimes when you don’t see that and realize how important that is, one day he is going to wake up just like I did and regret you didn’t stick where you are at.
– Darryl Strawberry, Former Mets Player
Tensions Over Contract Negotiations
Alonso decided to leave after not receiving a new offer from the Mets following his contract opt-out last season. Strawberry suggested that both Alonso and the Mets could have fought harder to reach an agreement that might have kept him in New York.
I think they both could have fought harder in that situation,
Strawberry remarked. – Darryl Strawberry, Former Mets Player
The Broader Impact on Mets and Fans
Alonso’s departure marks a significant shift for the Mets, as the team loses its leading offensive presence. With figures like Alex Rodriguez and Carson Benge drawing attention during broadcasts and spring training, the Mets face pressure to fill the void left by Alonso. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the organization responds in the coming seasons.
