Mets Fans React to Contract Departures
New York Mets supporters have been experiencing quite a tumultuous time, and the reactions online have been, to put it mildly, pretty intense.
On Tuesday, news broke that Edwin Diaz, a three-time All-Star relief pitcher, signed a three-year contract worth $69 million with the Los Angeles Dodgers, after dedicating seven seasons to the Mets. The following day, reports surfaced that star first baseman Pete Alonso has also found a new home, inking a five-year deal valued at $155 million with the Baltimore Orioles.
What’s interesting, or perhaps disappointing for some, is that both contracts set new records for the highest average annual value for a reliever and a first baseman, respectively.
Mets fans are processing news heavy on their hearts. Ron Darling, a prominent figure associated with the Mets, described Diaz’s shift as “kind of shocking,” expressing surprise about Alonso’s decision to join the Orioles during an MLB Network appearance. Even notable celebrities like Jerry Seinfeld and Jon Stewart chimed in, voicing their discontent regarding Alonso’s exit from Queens.
Reflecting on Alonso’s journey, he debuted with the Mets in 2019 and quickly made his mark by winning the National League Rookie of the Year award and leading the league with 53 home runs. Over his seven seasons with the Mets, Alonso was selected for the All-Star team five times and clinched the Home Run Derby title twice. Last season, he had a standout performance, boasting a .272 batting average with 38 home runs and 126 RBIs, leading the National League with 41 doubles.
Diaz, on the other hand, was a three-time All-Star during his six seasons with the Mets, although he missed the 2023 season due to injury. He managed a 2.93 ERA with 144 saves and 839 strikeouts. Last season was noteworthy for him, as he pitched 66.1 innings, saved 28 games, and recorded an impressive 1.63 ERA.
As the Mets fans continue to grapple with these changes, it remains to be seen how the team will adjust in the upcoming season. One can only hope for brighter days ahead.
