The Emancipation of the New York Mets franchise
New York Mets fans were ecstatic and truly enthused when they heard the great news of the impending sale of their franchise.
For decades, the New York Mets have been belittled into masquerading as a small-market team in the biggest market of them all. Fans have had false hope for years and have witnessed a team with restraints for the past 18 seasons.
Fred Wilpon, the majority owner of the franchise since 2002, and his son Jeff are nearing the end of their reign as CEO and COO of the Mets. And it is about time.
Despite their deep affection for the Mets, the Wilpons were not equipped to run this franchise the way it should have been. They were not willing or capable to make a larger financial investment in the team and increase payroll.
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The team has let players like Zack Wheeler, Daniel Murphy, Jose Reyes, and more walk away because the Mets refused to match their high price. The Mets have missed out on countless free agents over the years because the Wilpons refused to spend like a big market team.
An unexpected light was shined on Mets fans earlier this week, some might call a blessing early on in this holiday season. Billionaire philanthropist and hedge fund manager Steve Cohen has a proposed deal for controlling interest in the Mets.
Cohen would take control of the team even while the Wilpons retain putative control for five years. His estimated net worth is north of $10 billion. There will be a lot more money in Flushing. A lot more. Cohen is finally exposing the true potential of New York’s National League franchise.
The plan is for Cohen to up his share of the New York Mets up to 80% within the next five years.
The Mets will soon be possible landing spots for big-name free agents. With the change in ownership, the New York Mets could see a lot of achievement in the 2020s.
Next. Blue Jays: Dallas Keuchel should be main priority. dark
We will finally see how glorious the Mets can be now that they are in the hands of somebody suited for the job.