PORT STREET LUCIE — Steve Cohen’s first three seasons as Mets owner have produced two losing teams and his goal of winning the World Series, which he first stated when he bought the team There was little confidence that this would happen over the next two years.
And to that end, Cohen directed shade towards the team’s previous ownership under the Wilpon family.
“I wish we had a winning season, but it’s not easy,” Cohen said during his annual Spring Training State of the Mets address. “In the end, what’s given is given.”
It was a reference to an overwhelming farm system that has since been improved. But there have also been growing pains, most notably last year’s 75-win team underperforming in the first half and Coach Cohen trading star players Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander for prospects. That’s what I was forced to do.
Now, with a farm system that includes names like Jett Williams, Luis Angel Acuña, Drew Gilbert, and Ryan Clifford, as well as several pitchers that Mets owners are obsessed with, Cohen is the organization’s Be confident in your direction.
“I tend to be optimistic, which is understandable, but I think there’s good reason to be optimistic,” Cohen said. “The talent we’re producing, the players, making them better, making them better. I’ve always wanted that. The best teams are doing that, and we’re doing it now. are doing.”
Cohen also addressed Pete Alonso’s contract situation, saying it would be beneficial for the club to have the hard-hitting first baseman become a free agent after the season.
“We haven’t had any discussions. I think the best thing for Pete at this point is for him to have a great year without distractions,” Cohen said. “I think that’s what’s best for the baseball club. We know how to do this. We did it with Edwin. [Diaz]I did it with Brandon. [Nimmo] After the season. I’ll figure it out when I get there. ”
