1 reason why the Mets will end up extending Pete Alonso, 3 reasons they won't

A contract extension with Pete Alonso is on the list of demands from fans. Arguably the most popular New York Mets player right now, a single year remaining on his deal before free agency has made him the subject of trade rumors since the summer.

Assurances from David Stearns do little. Until an extension has been signed, we should be concerned Alonso won't remain with the Mets beyond 2024.

How confident are we that an extension will take place? One reason suggests it will happen. Another three reasons point toward it not taking place. Fret not. One reason is all it takes.

The Mets will extend Pete Alonso because Steve Cohen wants to deliver some good news and he's a fan

Signing Alonso to an extension is much more of a Steve Cohen than a David Stearns move. Cohen has shown he cares about giving the fans what they want. Stearns' reputation isn't so much about pleasing anything other than the win column.

The failure by the Mets to sign Yoshinobu Yamamoto this offseason adds some pressure for this ball club. We've become accustomed to the splashy moves. None is easier to complete than an extension with one of your best players, Alonso.

The Mets will already engage in a discussion with Alonso’s representation this offseason in regards to his 2024 salary. While looking to avoid arbitration, the discussion of an extension is sure to come up. There’s no actual deadline for a deal to take shape. So worry not if it’s March and no extension is signed. Francisco Lindor didn’t sign his deal until the season nearly began. This responsibility will fall on Cohen to ask his President of Baseball Operations to sign Alonso at any cost. Our only remaining question is if Uncle Steve is willing to do this.