In an exclusive interview, Mets owner Steve Cohen elucidates how the club struck a deal with Pete Alonso that aligns perfectly with David Stearns' guide to becoming a perennial power.

Mets owner Steve Cohen suggested the secret sit-down with Pete Alonso in Tampa on Tuesday, and that may have been the breakthrough the sides needed.

After protracted negotiations, the New York Mets signed slugger Pete Alonso to a two-year, $54 million contract Wednesday. While it seemed at times as if the two sides would be unable to reach an agreement,