The Financial Impact of Pete Alonso’s Contract on the New York Mets in 2025
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Pete Alonso’s new contract with the New York Mets has made headlines, not just for its record-breaking figures but also for the significant financial implications it carries for the team. The two-time All-Star first baseman signed a two-year, $54 million deal, with a player option after https://www.storenymets.com/collections/joe-hudson-jersey the first year. In 2025, Alonso is set to earn $30 million, the highest one-year salary ever for a first baseman in MLB history. While this deal provides the Mets with short-term roster flexibility, the financial burden extends far beyond Alonso’s $30 million annual average value (AAV).
The Mets’ payroll, already one of the highest in the league, surged from approximately $295 million to $325 million due to Alonso’s contract. This pushed the team well above MLB’s highest competitive balance tax (CBT) threshold, often referred to as the “Cohen Tax.” As a result, the Mets will incur an additional $32.1 million in luxury tax penalties in 2025. This means Alonso’s actual cost to the team will be a staggering $62.1 million for the season. The Mets are taxed at 95% on every dollar spent between $281 million and $301 million, and 110% on each dollar above $301 million.
Despite the financial strain, Alonso’s presence remains crucial for the Mets. Since his debut in 2019, he has been one of the most consistent power hitters in baseball, ranking second in home runs (226) during that span, trailing only Aaron Judge. Alonso is also just 27 home runs shy of breaking Darryl Strawberry’s all-time Mets record, a milestone he could achieve in 2025 if he maintains his career averages.
While owner Steve Cohen has expressed a desire to eventually reduce payroll and avoid the “Cohen Tax,” he has also shown a willingness to spend heavily if it enhances the team’s chances of winning. However, Cohen has cautioned against adding too many long-term contracts, as they could limit roster flexibility. With over $100 million in AAV already committed to Juan Soto, Francisco Lindor, and Brandon Nimmo through 2030, the Mets must https://www.storenymets.com/collections/drew-smith-jersey carefully balance their financial commitments.
If Alonso performs well in 2025 and opts out of his contract, he could become one of the top free agents in the 2025-26 class, alongside Vladimir Guerrero Jr. For now, the Mets will hope Alonso’s production justifies the hefty price tag, both in salary and luxury tax penalties.