Billionaire Steve Cohen was approved as the new owner of the New York Mets on Friday, and the move is drawing plenty of chatter on Twitter.
Former Mets catcher Mike Piazza called it a “special day” for all those with ties to the organization and wished Cohen well in this new venture:
Very Excited for this next chapter in @Mets history. This is a special day for all of us. Looking forward to the future with pride and optimism. Mr. Cohen, you have my full support and gratitude. Looking forward to seeing you all at @CitiField next year!#LGM
— Mike Piazza (@mikepiazza31) October 30, 2020
Others were sure to note how Cohen’s wealth might lead to increased spending in free agency this offseason:
Sort > All MLB Free Agents by Price > Highest to Lowest! #SteveCohen #LGM https://t.co/BTcgHk90s8 pic.twitter.com/QQmwwFLIPQ
— SheaUpperDeck (@SheaUpperDeck) October 30, 2020
Quick reminder for Mets fans (photo by @TheKendallBaker) pic.twitter.com/cbyaBkoRuN
— Michael Mayer (@mikemayer22) October 30, 2020
Jeff Passan, ever the one to throw in the humorous meme or GIF, also alluded to Cohen’s net worth when the news was first announced:
mets fans rn pic.twitter.com/3FnsXMCjBP
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) October 30, 2020
The sale of the Mets had been a rather arduous process, one that dragged on throughout the 2020 season.
Former MLB All-Star Alex Rodriguez and his conglomerate of investors pushed the envelope with the Wilpon family looking to sell, though Cohen was likely to outbid them at any juncture, if he so chose.
Still, the initial agreement hardly sealed the deal. There were whispers as to whether the other 29 owners would actually approve Cohen, with Chicago White Sox owner Jerry Reinsdorf reportedly among those to oppose Cohen’s ownership.
However, Friday’s owner vote makes it official, ending the drawn-out saga. It’s about time:
— Jack Persampire (@jpersampire) October 30, 2020
Some Mets fans also left a few parting shots for the Wilpon’s, who had fallen out of favor with the fan base:
Mets Twitter with the Wilpons right now pic.twitter.com/kvlFdoKug4
— Dylan Hornik (@_Hornik_) October 30, 2020
The Wilpon’s were hardly big spenders, but — given his wealth — Mets fans will almost certainly be expecting Cohen to change the team’s willingness to sign big free agents.
Indeed, it is possible New York could be in on top free agents like Trevor Bauer and J.T. Realmuto, among others.
Regardless, as Piazza stated, this is certainly a new era for the Mets.