Mets fans collectively breathed a sigh of relief Wednesday night as it was announced that first baseman Pete Alonso is returning to the New York Mets. While not yet official, it is reported that Alonso signed a two-year, $54 million deal with a $10 million signing bonus. It's also reported that there is an opt-out clause in Alonso's contract after the first year.

Alonso’s return to the Mets marks the end of a tumultuous offseason. The two sides were often far apart on a deal, with owner Steve Cohen even remarking on how exhausting the negotiations were. The Mets will regain a significant offensive force after Alonso slugged 34 home runs and tallied 88 RBI last season — both career lows (excluding the shortened 2020 season). Nevertheless, Alonso was a key factor in the Mets’ deep postseason run, most notably with his three-run home run off Devin Williams in game three of the National League Wild Card series.

Prior to Alonso re-signing, it was reported that emerging infielder Mark Vientos would take over at first base. Despite the exhausting negotiations, re-signing "Polar Bear Pete" was one of the best moves of the Mets' offseason outside of Juan Soto. Alonso anchors the lineup and is a constant threat to opposing pitchers. Regardless, it's clear that Steve Cohen, Pete Alonso, and Mets fans are all thrilled that the deal is done.