Pete Alonso’s figure is once again at the center of the New York Mets‘ aspirations, and not only because of his offensive contribution in the 2024 season, but also because of the symbolic weight he represents for the organization.
A heavyweight claims Alonso is crucial to World Series aspirations
MLB legend Gary Sheffield made it clear that retaining the first baseman is crucial to the New York team’s ambitions.
“I’ve always said, if they were going to lose him, they almost did this offseason. If they lose him, the Mets will go straight back to the bottom. Now that he’s back and playing well, he’ll be the reason they win a championship in New York, if they ever do,” Sheffield told MLB Network.
Alonso, who signed a $54 million, two-year contract in February, with the option to leave at the end of the campaign, has responded with solid numbers: .259 average, 29 home runs and 103 RBIs. His performance has been a key factor in the Mets’ fight in the National League, where they currently occupy a privileged position in the race for the wild card.
A present and future that looks bright
The last time the Mets lifted a World Series title was in 1986, and the organization, under the heavy investment of Steve Cohen, has made it clear that it is looking to establish itself as a perennial contender. In this plan, Alonso’s permanence is seen as the axis around which the aspirations of glory revolve.
After his key role in the 2024 NLCS, fans are hoping that “The Polar Bear” will shine again in October. If he maintains his level, Alonso could not only consolidate his status as a club stalwart, but also become the piece that returns the Mets to the top of baseball.
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