When New York Mets‘ owner Steve Cohen talked to the press on Tuesday, fans could feel a calm, composed tone but also a clear determination of succeeding and leaving his mark on one of the most storied fanbases in baseball. The new man in charge stated that he would like to lift the World Series trophy within the next 3-5 years.
But as it turns out, fans weren’t the only ones that loved his speech and tone. Starting pitcher Marcus Stroman, who had the team waiting on his decision whether or not to take a one year, $18.9 million qualifying offer, ended up accepting thanks, in part, to the impression Cohen’s remarks left on him.
Sure, the most likely scenario is that Stroman’s agency tested the market for a few days to see which kinds of multiyear deals were out there for him, and given the uncertain post-Covid market, he decided that the safest route was to take the New York Mets’ one-year deal and re-enter free agency after the 2021 season. But the player himself clarified that he is fully on board with Cohen’s project.
The Mets’ boss impressed Stroman
After Stroman confirmed MetsMerized’s announcement that he would take the qualifying offer, Cohen tweeted at him saying that he was very happy with his decision and he would call him later to thank him.
Marcus , That is great news . Looking forward to meeting you soon.I will call you over the next few days to thank you .
— Steven Cohen (@StevenACohen2) November 11, 2020
The pitcher, in a different tweet, said that he was “beyond excited” to play for Cohen after watching Tuesday’s press conference.
“After watching the presser, I’m beyond excited to play for you sir. I could feel the excitement and passion you’re going to bring daily. Let’s go be great!,” he said.
After watching the presser, I’m beyond excited to play for you sir. I could feel the excitement and passion you’re going to bring daily. Let’s go be great! @StevenACohen2
— Marcus Stroman (@STR0) November 11, 2020
Cohen, a lifelong Mets’ fans, is already off to a strong start just by filling fans’ hopes with the promise of building a perennial contender. He wants to compete for the long haul.
Mets’ fans are sure hoping that the ‘Cohen effect’ works its magic with some of the top free agent targets in the market, such as starting pitcher Trevor Bauer and JT Realmuto. It is evident that Cohen wants to build a winning, sustainable franchise, and so far, he has said all the right words.