Some team owners are all about the profits, but Steve Cohen is focused on the scoreboard. Since he became the owner of the New York Mets, he’s made significant investments, shattered records, and made it clear that he won’t accept mediocrity. With his bold decisions and a strong vision for the future, he’s ready to steer the team in a new direction.
Steve Cohen’s Vision for the Mets Revolves Around Winning and Fan Happiness
Cohen bought the Mets in 2020 for around $2.4 billion, positioning him as one of the richest owners in Major League Baseball. Even with his impressive financial skills, he insists that his main focus isn’t just making money; it’s about creating a winning atmosphere and improving the experience for fans.
In an introductory press conference on 11 Nov, 2020, he said, “I can make millions of people happy and what an incredible opportunity that is and so you know that’s how I’m thinking about this. It’s really about building something great, building something for the fans.”
“I’m not in this to be mediocre you know that’s just not my thing you know I want something great and I know the fans want something great and so that’s my goal and that’s that’s what I’m gonna do I’m going to be an owner who builds a team that has continued success we want to create a blueprint for winning”, he added.
“I’m not trying to make money. We’re trying to win. And I love the fact that I can change how the Mets are perceived, how the Mets fans perceive themselves. And if I can pull it off, wow! I’ve just made New York City and millions of fans happy.” Cohen said via Tom Verducci from SI.com
His bold move to acquire Juan Soto highlights his determination to turn the Mets into a consistent powerhouse. Since taking ownership of the team in 2020, he has poured more than $1 billion into player salaries.
This contract comes with a signing bonus of $75 million and an average salary of $51 million per year, setting a new record in MLB. There’s also an opt-out clause after the fifth season, but the Mets can keep it in check by raising the annual salary by $4 million for the remaining years, which could extend Soto’s time with the team and their financial commitment.
Cohen made a strategic trade in January 2021, bringing back All-Star shortstop Francisco Lindor and experienced pitcher Carlos Carrasco in a trade with the Cleveland Indians.
He also signed a three-year, $130 million deal for Max Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young winner, in December 2021.
He’s also got plans for an $8 billion entertainment hub near Citi Field, featuring a casino, hotel, and music venue, showcasing his goal to turn the area into a year-round hotspot for both fans and locals.
