Dodgers' Freddie Freeman commends Mets owner Steve Cohen's commitment to spending

"I love what he's [Cohen] doing," said Freeman. "He wants to win. He's telling the fans, 'I'm in this with you guys.' He's a fan of baseball, and he's a fan of his team." 

During his introductory news conference after purchasing the franchise for $2.4 billion in 2020, Cohen set high expectations for the franchise. Cohen told reporters he would consider it "slightly disappointing” if he didn’t win a World Series in three to five seasons. 

This season marks the franchise's third under Cohen, who continues to use his estimated $17.5 billion net worth to achieve his goal. The team's payroll for 2023 will be the highest in the sport's history, exceeding $468 million, including luxury tax penalties. 

While Cohen's spending has received criticism, especially from other owners, Freeman, whose Dodgers boast the fifth-highest payroll in the majors, doesn't see an issue with it. 

"It's up to us to beat his team," Freeman said. 

"Why would you be upset? The guy wants to win," he added. "Spend away. Why not? He's telling his fans, I'm with you. It's excited the fan base to have an owner that wants to win as much as they do."

If there's anyone who can cause the Mets trouble, it's Freeman. In his career against the Mets, Freeman is batting .302 with 28 home runs, 115 RBI and an .878 OPS. 

The Post relayed Freeman's comments to Cohen, who was glad someone appreciated his efforts. 

"That is one," Cohen joked. "I will take it."

Compared to their usual offseasons, the Dodgers had a quiet winter, with their most lucrative deal re-signing LHP Clayton Kershaw to a one-year, $20 million contract. It's possible that Angels two-way star Shohei Ohtani's looming free agency played a part in that, though Freeman doesn't seem concerned about the lack of spending. 

"We cut back, but to a $240 million payroll," he said. "Sure, we didn't have the $300 million signing. But, in this clubhouse, you look around, you still see a really good team."

Freeman and the Dodgers begin their season at home against the Diamondbacks, and Cohen's Mets kick off theirs in Miami against the Marlins. Opening Day is March 30.