David Stearns, the Mets’ President of Baseball Operations, and owner Steve Cohen have faced criticism for breaking up the core of the team. In the months leading up to spring training, all eyes will be on the Mets’ management as they work to replace the players who have left New York with strong, proven talent capable of leading the team to the World Series. Without this success, their efforts are meaningless.
The new Mets roster cannot repeat last season’s failure to make the playoffs. On Wednesday, the team must adjust to the loss of star first baseman Pete Alonso, who signed a five-year, $155 million deal with the Orioles. They’ll also attempt to succeed without Edwin Diaz, arguably the best closer in baseball, who went to the after rejecting the Mets’ offer by just $3 million. Additionally, outfielder Brandon Nimmo, considered a clubhouse leader alongside Francisco Lindor, waived his no-trade clause and headed to Texas, signaling a leadership shift.
The level of change on both the roster and coaching staff is overwhelming. This comes after a disappointing 83-win season, despite a hefty $340 million payroll—high enough to surpass the —following a solid run in the 2024 National League Championship Series. After the 2025 season, Cohen apologized to fans, calling the results unacceptable and pledging improvement. Since then, three long-standing, popular players have left the organization, two for bigger contracts elsewhere, leaving fans frustrated and disheartened. Now the question is how Cohen and Stearns will respond.
With the second-highest payroll in MLB and Cohen’s substantial net worth untouched, the Mets’ ambition to win soon remains intact. Their strategy likely involves splurging on top free agents and making bold trades, possibly including pursuing ace pitcher Tarik Skubal. Despite losing Alonso, Diaz, and Nimmo, Stearns is optimistic about the offseason, acknowledging that drastic changes must yield significant improvements.
Fans can expect a renewed team built on a more balanced roster. The Yankees, for instance, successfully rebuilt after losing star Juan Soto, signing key players like Max Fried and trading for others, maintaining consistent performance. The Mets face similar challenges replacing Alonso’s power—a major contributor with 38 home runs last season. Their options now include free agent third baseman Eugenio Suarez, a powerful hitter entering his 34th year who could fill in alongside Marcus Semien at second base. Gaps remain throughout the team, including first base, left and center field, bullpen, and the critical starting pitching rotation.
Stearns, who thrives under pressure, opted not to match Alonso’s lengthy offer from Baltimore, preferring a fresh start. This bold approach demands fan trust and confidence in his vision. Stearns was a prized acquisition from the Brewers, signed through 2028 with a mandate to build a sustainable championship team.
Months after missing the playoffs, breaking up the team’s core sends a clear message: mediocrity is unacceptable. Persistent issues like an unreliable starting rotation and an inability to win late-game situations, reflected in a 0-70 record after the eighth inning in 2025, influenced this decision. While rumors of clubhouse problems surfaced, Stearns defended the team culture, citing hard work and accountability despite frustration from the poor finish.
In the seven years Alonso, Diaz, and Nimmo played together, the Mets earned eight playoff wins and two postseason appearances—but that was not enough. Sentiment took a backseat to business as the team seeks to elevate its performance. Fans may feel the loss deeply, but this approach could help forge a stronger, more competitive team.
The disappointment and frustration are understandable, but now it’s time to look forward and see what the Mets will become on Opening Day.
Fan Take: This shakeup is a pivotal moment for Mets fans and baseball at large, emphasizing that even big-spending teams must make tough decisions to chase championships. How the Mets rebuild could set a blueprint for other teams facing similar crossroads, making this off-season one of the most intriguing to watch.
