Part 4/9:
Duquette noted that the negotiations for Alonso differed significantly from his experience with another star player, Juan Soto. While Soto's situation was characterized by a straightforward bidding war, Alonso's scenario required a more intricate balancing act. At the start of the offseason, the Mets extended a qualifying offer to Alonso, signaling their valuation of him at approximately $21 million, which he ultimately declined.