New York Mets president Sandy Alderson to step down, become special advisor

NEW YORK -- Sandy Alderson will step down as president of the New York Mets when the team finds his replacement.

The 74-year-old Alderson, a cancer survivor who has served two stints as New York's general manager, will move to a new role as special advisor to owners Steve and Alex Cohen and the senior leadership team.

The first-place Mets announced the plans Thursday evening before hosting the Pittsburgh Pirates on Roberto Clemente Day in Major League Baseball.

"For me personally and for the organization, it's the right time for this transition,'' Alderson said in a statement. "We are having a successful season, we have made several key additions to our senior leadership team and we have built…